Lauryldimethylamine (1227 Customized) – Tertiary Amine for Surfactants, Antimicrobials, and Functional Polymers
Basic Information
CAS Number: 112-18-5
Chemical Name: N,N-Dimethyldodecylamine
Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₃₁N
Molecular Weight: 213.40 g/mol
Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
Density: ~0.79 g/cm³
Boiling Point: 247–249°C
Flash Point: >100°C
Solubility: Soluble in alcohols, oils, and organic solvents; practically insoluble in water (forms salts with acids)
Overview
Lauryldimethylamine (also known as N,N-dimethyldodecylamine, trade designation 1227 Customized) is a tertiary amine featuring a long hydrophobic C₁₂ alkyl chain and a dimethylamino functional group. This structure provides excellent surface activity, wetting, and foaming properties, making it a versatile intermediate for the synthesis of quaternary ammonium compounds (e.g., lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, commonly known as 1227), antimicrobial agents, and functional polymers.
Mechanisms of Action in Formulations
Ion pair formation: Reacts with mineral or organic acids to form protonated salts, enhancing water solubility and exhibiting cationic activity.
Surfactant synergy: Blends effectively with nonionic and amphoteric surfactants to create stable emulsion systems.
Enhanced foaming: When mixed with anionic ingredients at controlled pH, the amine contributes to increased foaming and cleaning performance.
Industrial Applications
Household chemicals: Used as a softening agent and fabric conditioner (after quaternization), and as an antistatic agent to reduce static electricity on surfaces.
Agrochemicals: Tertiary amine-based cationic systems improve adhesion of fungicides and herbicides to leaf surfaces, increasing efficacy.
Oilfield and fuel treatment: Enhances lubricity, reduces equipment corrosion, and stabilizes petroleum emulsions.
Textile industry: Applied in dyeing and finishing processes to fix dyes, provide antistatic properties, and soften fibers.
Pharmaceuticals and disinfectants: Serves as a precursor for quaternary ammonium biocides and antiseptic compounds.
Key Benefits
High surface activity and foaming capacity.
Versatile reactivity – readily quaternized for cationic derivatives.
Good compatibility with both cationic and nonionic systems.
Provides conditioning and antistatic effects in personal care and fabric care.
Stable when formulated at appropriate pH conditions.
Quality Control and Regulatory Aspects
High purity grades are essential for consistent performance and to avoid impurities (dimers, trimers, residual chlorides) that may affect formulation stability.
Compliance with international regulations: REACH (EU), TSCA (US), and local chemical safety standards.
Safe handling and transportation: Classified as a potential irritant; requires appropriate labeling and packaging according to hazard communication standards.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Flammability and reactivity: May react exothermically with strong oxidizers; handle with care.
Environmental impact: Spills into water bodies can be toxic to aquatic life; implement proper spill containment and wastewater treatment.
Personal protective equipment: Wear gloves, safety goggles, and use adequate ventilation when handling, especially during heating or mixing.
Future Innovations
Research is ongoing to modify amine derivatives for reduced cytotoxicity and improved antiseptic properties in pharmaceutical applications.
Development of carbon‑neutral processes and green catalysts for tertiary amine production to reduce environmental footprint.
Integration with nanoparticles, biopolymers, and smart materials to create next‑generation products for healthcare, electronics, and advanced coatings.
Handling and Storage
Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from strong oxidizing agents, acids, and moisture.
Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination and evaporation.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.
Packaging
Available in 25 kg, 50 kg, 200 kg drums, and bulk containers. Custom packaging upon request.
Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by GC), amine value, water content, and color to ensure consistent performance.