Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide, commonly known as CTAB or Cetrimide, with CAS number 57-09-0, is a powerful cationic surfactant that offers a wide spectrum of industrial applications. As a manufacturer and supplier, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. delivers this essential chemical, characterized by its white crystalline powder appearance and high purity, to meet the demands of various sectors. Understanding its properties is key to leveraging its full potential in your formulations and processes.

Core Properties of CTAB

CTAB is a quaternary ammonium salt characterized by a long hydrophobic hexadecyl (C16) chain and a hydrophilic trimethylammonium head group, balanced by a bromide counter-ion. This amphiphilic structure grants it excellent surfactant properties, including:

  • Surface Tension Reduction: CTAB effectively lowers the surface tension of liquids, enabling better wetting and spreading.
  • Micelle Formation: Above a critical micelle concentration (CMC), CTAB molecules aggregate in aqueous solutions to form micelles, which are crucial for solubilizing oils and hydrophobic substances.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: The cationic nature of CTAB allows it to interact with and disrupt the negatively charged cell membranes of bacteria and fungi, making it an effective biocide and antiseptic.
  • Solubility: It is soluble in water, methanol, and alcohol, with varying degrees of solubility in other organic solvents, making it versatile for different formulations.

With an assay typically exceeding 98%, and often reaching 99.12% as offered by NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., the high purity of CTAB ensures predictable and reliable performance in industrial settings. When you buy CTAB, you are acquiring a compound with a well-defined chemical structure and consistent physical characteristics.

Diverse Industrial Applications of CTAB

The unique properties of Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide make it a valuable component in numerous industries:

  • Household and Industrial Cleaning: CTAB is incorporated into detergents, disinfectants, and sanitizers due to its cleaning and antimicrobial efficacy. Its ability to emulsify oils and greases makes it effective in heavy-duty cleaning formulations.
  • Personal Care Products: In hair conditioners and shampoos, CTAB acts as a conditioning agent, imparting softness and manageability by neutralizing negative charges on hair. Its use in cosmetics is carefully regulated based on concentration.
  • Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: CTAB is used in antiseptic formulations, gargle water, and as a component in certain medical preparations. Its biocide activity is leveraged in hospital and laboratory settings.
  • Chemical Synthesis: As a phase transfer catalyst, CTAB facilitates reactions between reactants in immiscible phases, thereby increasing reaction rates and yields in organic synthesis. Manufacturers can purchase CTAB to optimize their chemical production processes.
  • Biotechnology and Research: As previously discussed, CTAB is critical for DNA isolation and also finds use in protein electrophoresis and nanoparticle synthesis.

When you decide to purchase CTAB, consider the specific grade and purity required for your application. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is a trusted manufacturer and supplier, offering competitive pricing and bulk packaging to support your industrial needs. Our commitment is to provide you with a high-quality chemical solution backed by expertise, ensuring your operations benefit from the versatility of Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide.