Tributylhexadecylphosphonium Bromide

Tributylhexadecylphosphonium Bromide (TBHDPB) (CAS 14937-45-2) is a specialized, long-chain quaternary phosphonium salt combining three short butyl groups with one very long hexadecyl (C₁₆) chain. It typically appears as a white to off-white waxy solid or semi-solid with minimal odor. The amphiphilic nature provided by the long hydrophobic chain and the charged phosphonium head group makes TBHDPB an exceptionally effective Phase-Transfer Catalyst (PTC) for reactions involving highly non-polar substrates and an excellent cationic surfactant. TBHDPB's high lipophilicity allows it to readily partition into organic phases, facilitating challenging chemical reactions and promoting the formation of microemulsions. [Image of phase-transfer catalysis mechanism]

Basic Information of TBHDPB

CAS No.:	14937-45-2
EC No.:	239-014-9
Linear Formula:	C28H60BrP
Molecular Weight:	507.67
Appearance:	White to off-white waxy solid/semi-solid
Melting Point:	56-58 °C(lit.)
Solubility:	Slightly soluble in water; highly soluble in non-polar organic solvents (toluene, hexane), and oils.
Chemical Structure:

Application Overview

TBHDPB's unique amphiphilic structure, which combines the catalytic ability of the phosphonium cation with the solubility of a long alkyl chain, makes it crucial for specialized chemical and material science applications:

• Phase-Transfer Catalysis (PTC): Highly effective in solid-liquid and liquid-liquid PTC systems, particularly where the organic phase is highly non-polar or involves very large, lipophilic substrates. It is used in complex organic synthesis, polymerization, and alkylation reactions.

• Cationic Surfactant/Emulsifier: Acts as a highly effective cationic surfactant, stabilizing microemulsions and liposomes. This is valuable in drug delivery systems, cosmetic formulations, and enhanced oil recovery (EOR).

• Ionic Liquid Precursor: The cation is used to synthesize specialized ionic liquids and molten salts, where the long chain imparts high hydrophobicity and can lead to liquid crystalline phases.

• Corrosion Inhibition: In specialized industrial applications, it can be used as a component of corrosion inhibitors or scale inhibitors due to its ability to adsorb strongly onto metal surfaces.

• High Surface Activity Certification: We test and certify the material's Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) and surface tension reduction profile. This data is vital for customers in the surfactant, emulsification, and materials science fields to accurately predict and optimize performance in microemulsion and foaming applications.

• Consistent Waxy/Solid Morphology: We employ a controlled crystallization process to ensure a consistent, non-tacky, free-flowing waxy solid. This controlled morphology simplifies large-scale handling, weighing, and dissolution, particularly for customers melting the product for use in high-temperature media.