Tetrabutylammonium Bromide: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Applications and Properties

Introduction

Tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) is a quaternary ammonium salt with the chemical formula (CH3)4NBr. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water, alcohol, and other organic solvents. TBAB is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in chemistry, including as a phase-transfer catalyst, an emulsifier, and an ion-pairing agent.

Properties of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

• Molecular weight: 322.4 g/mol
• Melting point: 162-164 °C
• Boiling point: 362 °C
• Density: 1.07 g/cm³
• Solubility in water: 1.4 g/100 ml
• Solubility in ethanol: 10 g/100 ml

Applications of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

TBAB is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in chemistry. Some of its most common uses include:

• Phase-transfer catalyst: TBAB is a commonly used phase-transfer catalyst, which helps to transfer reactants and products between aqueous and organic phases. This is useful in a variety of reactions, such as the alkylation of phenols and the acylation of amines.
• Emulsifier: TBAB is also an effective emulsifier, which helps to stabilize emulsions of immiscible liquids. This is useful in a variety of applications, such as the preparation of salad dressings and the production of cosmetics.
• Ion-pairing agent: TBAB can also be used as an ion-pairing agent, which helps to reduce the polarity of ionic compounds. This is useful in a variety of applications, such as the extraction of metal ions from aqueous solutions and the separation of organic acids from aqueous solutions.

Table 1: Physicochemical Properties of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

Synthesis of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

TBAB can be synthesized by the reaction of tetrabutylammonium hydroxide with hydrobromic acid. The reaction is typically carried out in an aqueous solution.

(CH3)4NOH + HBr → (CH3)4NBr + H2O

Table 2: Applications of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

Safety and Handling of Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

TBAB is a toxic and corrosive compound. It should be handled with care and appropriate personal protective equipment should be worn.

• Inhalation: TBAB can cause irritation to the respiratory tract. Inhalation of high concentrations of TBAB can lead to respiratory failure.
• Skin contact: TBAB can cause irritation to the skin. Prolonged skin contact can lead to chemical burns.
• Eye contact: TBAB can cause irritation to the eyes. Severe eye contact can lead to corneal damage.
• Ingestion: TBAB can cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. Ingestion of large amounts of TBAB can lead to kidney failure.

Table 3: Safety and Handling Precautions for Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

FAQs About Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

1. What is the molecular weight of TBAB?

The molecular weight of TBAB is 322.4 g/mol.

2. What is the melting point of TBAB?

The melting point of TBAB is 162-164 °C.

3. What is the boiling point of TBAB?

The boiling point of TBAB is 362 °C.

4. What is the density of TBAB?

The density of TBAB is 1.07 g/cm³.

5. What is the solubility of TBAB in water?

The solubility of TBAB in water is 1.4 g/100 ml.

6. What is the solubility of TBAB in ethanol?

The solubility of TBAB in ethanol is 10 g/100 ml.

7. What are the common applications of TBAB?

The common applications of TBAB include:

• Phase-transfer catalyst
• Emulsifier
• Ion-pairing agent

8. What are the safety precautions for handling TBAB?

The safety precautions for handling TBAB include:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment
• Handle in a well-ventilated area
• Avoid contact with skin and eyes
• Do not ingest

Humorous Stories About Tetrabutylammonium Bromide

Story 1:

A chemist was working with TBAB in a laboratory.