The Role of TTAB (CAS 1119-97-7) as a Cationic Surfactant
Tetradecyltrimethylammonium Bromide (TTAB), cataloged under CAS number 1119-97-7, stands out as a significant example of a cationic surfactant. Its molecular architecture, featuring a positively charged quaternary ammonium group coupled with a long hydrophobic alkyl chain (tetradecyl), endows it with unique surface-active properties. These properties are fundamental to its broad utility across numerous industrial and scientific applications. For professionals seeking to buy TTAB, understanding its function as a cationic surfactant is key to unlocking its full potential in their formulations and processes.
The defining characteristic of TTAB as a cationic surfactant is its ability to orient at interfaces, lowering surface and interfacial tension. The positively charged hydrophilic head group interacts favorably with negatively charged surfaces, leading to adsorption and modification of surface properties. This makes TTAB highly effective as a wetting agent, emulsifier, dispersant, and conditioning agent. In applications like hair care products, its positive charge allows it to bind to the negatively charged hair cuticle, providing a smoothing and detangling effect. Similarly, in textile finishing, it can impart softness and antistatic properties.
Beyond its conditioning and emulsifying capabilities, the antimicrobial action of TTAB is another critical aspect of its functionality. As a quaternary ammonium compound, it disrupts microbial cell membranes, leading to cell death. This property is leveraged extensively in the formulation of disinfectants, antiseptics, and sanitizers. Whether used in industrial cleaning solutions or topical medical applications, the efficacy of TTAB as an antimicrobial agent makes it a preferred choice for many manufacturers. When considering purchasing this chemical, its potent biocidal activity is a major draw for many end-users.
In laboratory settings and advanced material science, TTAB's surfactant properties are also highly valued. It can act as a solubilizing agent for poorly soluble compounds, a template for the synthesis of mesoporous materials, and a component in the preparation of nanoparticles. Its ability to form micelles at specific concentrations (critical micelle concentration, or CMC) is often exploited in controlled release systems and advanced analytical techniques. For scientists and procurement specialists looking to buy CAS 1119-97-7, partnering with a reputable manufacturer and supplier ensures access to a product with consistent surfactant properties and high purity, guaranteeing reliable performance in demanding applications. We are a dedicated provider of TTAB, committed to supplying high-quality materials to meet your diverse chemical needs.
We invite you to explore the wide-ranging utility of Tetradecyltrimethylammonium Bromide as a cationic surfactant. Contact us to learn more about our product and how we can support your industrial and research endeavors with high-quality TTAB.
Perspectives & Insights
Future Origin 2025
“Whether used in industrial cleaning solutions or topical medical applications, the efficacy of TTAB as an antimicrobial agent makes it a preferred choice for many manufacturers.”
Core Analyst 01
“When considering purchasing this chemical, its potent biocidal activity is a major draw for many end-users.”
Silicon Seeker One
“In laboratory settings and advanced material science, TTAB's surfactant properties are also highly valued.”