Tri Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride (TEBAC)

Tri Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride, often abbreviated as TEBA or TEBACl, is a quaternary ammonium compound. It is commonly used as a phase transfer catalyst in organic synthesis, which means it helps reactants in different phases (e.g., liquid and solid) come into contact more effectively. This compound is particularly valuable in reactions involving nucleophilic substitution, where it facilitates the transfer of ions between aqueous and organic phases.

 

TEBA is typically a white crystalline solid that is soluble in water and organic solvents. It has a strong affinity for organic cations and anions, making it effective in catalyzing various reactions. It is widely utilized in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors.

 

Due to its chemical nature, handling TEBA requires proper safety precautions, including the use of gloves and eye protection, as it can be harmful if ingested or if it comes into contact with the skin.

 

  • Tri ethyl benzyl ammonium Chloride (TEBA) Overview

Chemical Formula: C13H22ClN

Molecular Weight: 227.78 g/mol

CAS Number: 56-37-1

Physical and Chemical Properties of Tri Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride

1. Appearance: White crystalline Powder

 

2. Solubility: Soluble in water

 

3. Melting Range: 184°C-188°C

 

4. Moisture: NMT 1.0%

 

5. Sulphated ash: NMT 0.5%

 

6. Assay by Titrimetry: NLT 99.00%

Tri Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride

Chemical Properties:

 

  • Quaternary Ammonium Compound: TEBA is a quaternary ammonium salt, meaning it has a positively charged nitrogen atom with four alkyl or aryl groups attached.
  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions but may decompose when exposed to high temperatures.
  • Reactivity: 

1. Acts as a strong base.
2. It can undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions.
3. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and should be kept away from acids, reducing agents, and combustible materials.

Application of Tri Ethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride

1. Phase Transfer Catalyst:

 

TEBA is widely used as a phase transfer catalyst (PTC) in organic synthesis. It facilitates the transfer of reactants between immiscible phases (e.g., aqueous and organic phases) by forming ion pairs that can dissolve in the organic phase, thereby enhancing reaction rates.

It is particularly effective in nucleophilic substitution reactions, such as the synthesis of alkyl halides and ethers.

 

2. Pharmaceutical Industry:

 

TEBA is used in the production of various pharmaceuticals, where it assists in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) by promoting reactions between compounds that would otherwise react slowly or not at all.

 

3. Agriculture:

 

It is utilized in the synthesis of agrochemicals, including pesticides and herbicides, where it helps in forming compounds that are more effective and environmentally friendly.

 

4. Polymerization Reactions:

 

TEBA is employed in the polymer industry, particularly in the production of specialty polymers where it acts as a catalyst or co-catalyst, enabling the polymerization process to occur more efficiently.

 

5. Electrochemical Applications:

 

It can be used in electroplating and electrochemical synthesis processes, where it aids in the deposition of metals or the synthesis of electroactive compounds.

 

6. Extraction Processes:

 

TEBA is used in liquid-liquid extractions to transfer ionic compounds from the aqueous phase to the organic phase, which is particularly useful in purifying and isolating products in chemical processes.