Triethylene glycol monooctyl ether (CAS 19327-38-9)

Triethylene glycol monooctyl ether is a nonionic surfactant and solubilizer extensively utilized in scientific research for its excellent solubility and stability properties. Its structure, featuring a triethylene glycol backbone with an octyl ether substituent, provides a balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics, making it ideal for facilitating interactions between aqueous and non-aqueous phases. This compound is commonly employed in the formulation of microemulsions and other colloidal systems where it acts to reduce surface tension and enhance the stability of dispersions. These properties are crucial for studies in nanoparticle synthesis and drug delivery systems research, where controlled particle sizes and stable formulations are necessary. Furthermore, triethylene glycol monooctyl ether is used in the purification processes of biological samples, aiding in the extraction and isolation of sensitive components such as lipids and proteins without denaturing them. It also plays a significant role in environmental chemistry, particularly in the enhancement of biodegradation processes or in the remediation of hydrophobic organic contaminants. By improving the solubility of these compounds, it facilitates their breakdown and integration into natural biogeochemical cycles, providing insights into pollutant dispersion and degradation pathways.