Sodium palmitate (CAS 408-35-5)

Sodium palmitate, with the chemical formula C_16H_31NaO_2, is primarily recognized for its amphiphilic nature due to a long hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain and a hydrophilic carboxylate group neutralized by sodium. This structure endows it with surfactant properties, leading to extensive research into its ability to form micelles and bilayers in aqueous solutions. Such studies are pivotal in understanding the mechanisms of surfactant behavior, particularly in reducing surface and interfacial tension, and in exploring self-assembly processes which are in mimicking biological membranes. Additionally, sodium palmitate is instrumental in materials science for investigating crystallization and liquid crystal formation, offering insights into phase transitions and thermodynamics of self-assembled systems. Its role as a reference compound in analytical chemistry further underscores its importance, aiding in the development of new techniques for studying complex organic compounds and fatty acid salts. Thus, sodium palmitate not only provides a deeper understanding of surfactant chemistry and molecular interactions but also plays a significant role in advancing research in materials science and analytical methodologies.