What Is Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate?

Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate is a quaternary ammonium salt in which a central nitrogen atom bears one methyl group and three n-octyl chains, with a hydrogen sulfate (HSO₄⁻) counter ion. Its long alkyl chains confer strong lipophilic character while the charged ammonium head group provides affinity for polar and aqueous phases, making the compound intrinsically amphiphilic.

Because of its structural features, this compound belongs to the broader family of trioctylmethylammonium salts, sometimes referred to commercially under names such as Aliquat or Capriquat derivatives depending on the counter ion. The hydrogen sulfate form is particularly useful in acid-mediated reactions and in the preparation of task-specific ionic liquids.

Aladdin Scientific supplies this compound as catalog item M158385 for research and development applications.

What Are the Key Applications of This Reagent?

Phase-Transfer Catalysis (PTC): Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate acts as a phase-transfer catalyst by shuttling anionic reagents from an aqueous phase into an organic phase, enabling reactions between reagents that are otherwise immiscible. This is particularly valuable in nucleophilic substitution, alkylation, and oxidation reactions conducted under biphasic conditions.

Ionic Liquid Preparation: The compound serves as a precursor or component in the synthesis of room-temperature ionic liquids. Anion exchange of the hydrogen sulfate counter ion with other anions (e.g., bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, hexafluorophosphate) yields low-melting, hydrophobic ionic liquids used as green solvents and reaction media.

Liquid–Liquid Extraction: Its amphiphilic nature makes it effective in solvent extraction processes, including the selective extraction of metal ions, acids, and organic compounds from aqueous streams.

Surfactant and Membrane Research: As a long-chain quaternary ammonium compound, it finds use in studies of surfactant behavior, self-assembly, and ion transport across membranes.

How Should This Compound Be Handled and Stored?

Personal Protective Equipment: When handling Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate, wear appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat. Work in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to minimize inhalation of dust or aerosols.

Storage: Store the reagent in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry location away from moisture, strong oxidizers, and strong bases. The hydrogen sulfate counter ion imparts mild acidity; avoid contact with incompatible materials. Keep away from heat sources and open flames.

Stability: Quaternary ammonium salts of this type are generally stable under ambient conditions when stored properly. However, prolonged exposure to moisture may lead to hygroscopic uptake and potential hydrolysis of the counter ion under extreme conditions. Always reseal containers promptly after use.

Disposal: Dispose of waste in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations governing quaternary ammonium compounds and acid-containing materials. Do not pour down the drain without proper treatment.

How Does Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate Compare to Related Compounds?

The trioctylmethylammonium cation is shared across several commercially important salts; the differences lie in the anion:

• Hydrogen Sulfate (HSO₄⁻) form (M158385): Mildly Brønsted-acidic character; useful in acid-catalyzed PTC reactions and as a starting material for anion metathesis to prepare other ionic liquids.
• Chloride form: Most common commercial form (e.g., Aliquat 336); widely used in PTC and metal extraction but chloride ion can interfere in some synthetic applications.
• Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (NTf₂⁻) form: Hydrophobic ionic liquid with very low water miscibility; favored as a green reaction medium.
• Nitrate or acetate forms: Used in specialized extraction or catalytic applications.

Choosing the hydrogen sulfate form is advantageous when the reaction benefits from a mildly acidic environment, when chloride interference must be avoided, or when a convenient precursor for subsequent anion exchange is required.

Ordering, Availability, and Technical Support

Catalog Number: Methyltri-n-octylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU M158385. Please visit the product page for current pricing, available pack sizes, and lead times.

Purity and Specifications: Detailed specifications including purity grade, appearance, and analytical data are provided on the product certificate of analysis (CoA). Contact Aladdin Scientific technical support if you require a CoA for a specific lot number.

Custom Quantities: For bulk quantities or custom packaging, please reach out to our sales team via the contact form on the Aladdin Scientific website.

Technical Questions: If you have application-specific questions — such as optimal catalyst loading for a particular PTC reaction, recommended counter-ion exchange protocols, or compatibility with specific solvent systems — our technical support team is available to assist.

Returns and Quality Issues: If you receive a product that does not meet specifications, please refer to Aladdin Scientific's returns and refund policy and contact customer service with your order details and lot number.