🧪 Alkyltrimethylammonium Chloride
Alkyltrimethylammonium Chloride refers to a family of quaternary ammonium salts with the general formula:
CₙH₂ₙ₊₁N⁺(CH₃)₃Cl⁻,
where n = alkyl chain length, commonly C12, C14, C16, or C18.
🔍 Structure
- Cationic Head: Trimethylammonium group (N⁺(CH₃)₃)
- Hydrophobic Tail: Long-chain alkyl group (e.g., lauryl, myristyl, cetyl)
- Anion: Chloride (Cl⁻)
✅ Main Uses
🧼 1. Surfactants
-
Acts as a cationic surfactant in:
- Shampoos, hair conditioners
- Fabric softeners
- Antistatic agents
🦠 2. Disinfectants & Sanitizers
-
Used in:
- Surface cleaners (hospital, household, food industry)
- Water treatment biocides
- Algaecides for swimming pools and cooling towers
🧪 3. Industrial Applications
- Emulsifier for emulsions and suspensions
- Used in textile dyeing and paper processing
- Flotation agents in mining
⚠️ Safety & Handling
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Skin & Eye Irritation | Use gloves and goggles |
| Environmental Toxicity | Harmful to aquatic life |
| Inhalation | Avoid breathing mist or aerosol |
- Store in a cool, dry place, sealed away from acids and oxidizers
- Use protective equipment when handling in concentrated form
📌 Examples of Common Variants
| Name | Alkyl Chain | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cetrimonium chloride | C16 | Hair care, antiseptic |
| Lauryl trimethylammonium chloride | C12 | Fabric softener, cleaning |
| Myristyl trimethylammonium chloride | C14 | Conditioner, emulsifier |