Dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CAS 1119-94-4)

Dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide is a cationic surfactant widely used in research areas such as colloid and interface science. Its ability to form micelles in aqueous solutions makes it useful for studying the physicochemical properties of surfactant aggregates, which are relevant to the behavior of many biological and industrial systems. In the study of membrane mimetics, Dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide is often employed in the formation of model cell membranes to understand the interaction between surfactants and lipid bilayers. Additionally, it is used in the synthesis of nanoparticles, where it acts as a stabilizing agent to control particle size and prevent aggregation. Researchers also investigate the antimicrobial properties of this compound, examining its efficacy in disrupting bacterial membranes and the potential mechanisms behind this activity. Furthermore, Dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide serves as a phase transfer catalyst in organic synthesis, aiding in the transfer of a reactant from one phase into another, where the reaction occurs.