1,4-Di(Trimethylammonium)Butane Dibromide is a quaternary ammonium compound recognized by its symmetrical structure and strong ionic character. The chemical formula, C10H26Br2N2, highlights two trimethylammonium groups joined through a butane backbone, each paired with a bromide ion. This arrangement gives the compound notable stability, providing a robust framework for various chemical modifications and industry uses. The product frequently comes as colorless to off-white crystalline solid, but manufacturing conditions sometimes yield it as fine powder, compact flakes, or clear pearls. The broad range of physical forms makes adaptation possible across sectors, depending on processing and handling needs.
Breaking down its chemical architecture, the molecule features two nitrogen atoms bearing three methyl groups each, situated at the 1 and 4 positions of a linear aliphatic chain. The C10 backbone ensures enough flexibility so the molecule dissolves readily in polar solvents. Bromide anions balance the charge, contributing to ionic conductivity in analytical or electrochemical applications. Molecular weight sits at about 372.15 g/mol, linking manageable size with high ionic strength. Rigorous crystallization produces a solid with clear facets, often sought by labs for purity and ease of handling. Densities typically measure near 1.40 g/cm³, though variations arise depending on water content and temperature.
In trade, 1,4-Di(Trimethylammonium)Butane Dibromide is sold in both bulk and custom-packaged forms, from 100-gram laboratory bottles to multi-kilogram drums. Product grades focus on purity, often exceeding 98%, as lower-quality lots may contain residual solvents or halide contaminants. Specific grades cater to research, pharmaceutical synthesis, or use as standard reference material. The compound falls under HS Code 29239000, covering quaternary ammonium salts and hydroxides. Production involves quaternization of 1,4-dibromobutane with trimethylamine, a step demanding careful safety management due to potential release of vapors and heat.
A standout feature comes in its water solubility—near-complete miscibility in water and good compatibility with ethanol and methanol. At room temperature, 1,4-Di(Trimethylammonium)Butane Dibromide appears as a stable crystal, melting above 225°C. In humid environments, the solid draws in water, forming a sticky mass unless stored in air-tight containers. Flakes and pearls handle well with minimal dust, while fine powders disperse more easily but can present inhalation concerns without proper PPE. For those using aqueous solutions, concentration remains crucial: common laboratory solutions top out near 1.0 mol/L, balanced for both handling simplicity and shelf stability.
Industry relies on this compound for ion-pairing in chromatography, phase-transfer catalysis, and selective precipitation reactions. In biotechnology labs, 1,4-Di(Trimethylammonium)Butane Dibromide helps stabilize nucleic acids or proteins by providing a highly ordered ionic environment. The manufacturing background involves sourcing pure 1,4-dibromobutane and trimethylamine, chemicals sensitive to hazardous material regulations. Traders and processors keep a close eye on purity, as even slight degradation impacts performance in sensitive synthesis steps or analytical settings.
Handling this chemical means respecting both its ionic nature and the dangers common to organobromide salts. Direct contact with solid, solution, or dust can irritate eyes and skin; inhaling fine powder brings respiratory risk. MSDS sheets flag it as potentially harmful, so operators rely on gloves, goggles, and robust ventilation. Spills demand swift cleanup with absorbent material, never sweeping dry to avoid airborne dust. Although not classified as acutely toxic, the compound warrants controlled access and secure disposal routes—never down the drain, always within hazardous waste containers. Long-term environmental buildup hasn't been decisively studied, but, as with other quaternary ammonium compounds, prudent stewardship takes priority.
Working with 1,4-Di(Trimethylammonium)Butane Dibromide has shown its capability to unlock challenging reaction pathways, especially in the synthesis of functional polymers or advanced analytical separations. The strong ionic pairing, coupled with reliable crystallinity, ensures reproducible results in lab and plant. Those seeking to reformulate processes look for similar cationic sources but come back to this compound for its clean performance. While alternatives exist, none offer quite the same balance of handling ease, solubility, and stability across research, pilot, and production settings.
