N-Octyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bromide belongs to the family of quaternary ammonium salts, developed through the reaction of N-methylpyrrolidine with octyl bromide. The resulting compound stands out for its surface activity and solubility characteristics. It features both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions, making it a versatile ammonium-based compound. Its practical uses often appear in the synthesis of ionic liquids and as a phase transfer catalyst. Looking at its chemical structure, the compound contains a pyrrolidinium ring, substituted with an octyl group and a methyl group, balanced by a bromide anion. This symmetrical design leads to effects on solubility, surface activity, and compatibility with both polar and non-polar media.
Most suppliers offer this material as a crystalline solid, typically forming as white to off-white flakes or crystalline powder. It sometimes comes as soft pearls, highlighting its flexibility in form depending on purity, grain size, and processing method. Occasionally, one finds it available as a high-concentration solution, catering to process convenience. The solid flakes feel dry and easy to manipulate when stored in typical lab conditions. The compound’s density usually sits in the range of 1.1–1.2 g/cm³. Its melting point falls within the 70–90°C window, depending on trace impurities and polymorph presence. The solubility in water confirms its ionic nature, with rapid dissolution observed at room temperature. The solid form remains stable when protected from moisture and direct sunlight.
The compound formula reads C13H28BrN. The key molecular property lies in its strong ionic bond, which triggers both chemical stability and ease of handling for most experimental setups. Its molecular weight comes in around 278.28 g/mol. The configuration of the long octyl chain plus the methyl group on the pyrrolidinium core gives it a unique position among phase-transfer catalysts and ionic liquids. For regulatory and shipping purposes, the HS Code aligns closely with other organic nitrogen compounds, usually under section 2924. The designation helps with customs declarations, logistics, and compliance for cross-border shipments.
In practical terms, anyone storing or using N-Octyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bromide should keep it tightly sealed, away from humidity and sources of ignition. Spills may cause irritation to skin and eyes, so gloves and goggles belong in regular use. Inhalation of dust, if any arises during handling, triggers irritation in sensitive individuals. Current safety data places the substance in the “may be harmful” category, without falling into the list of most hazardous chemicals. Based on its bromide content, it always warrants respect, and accidental ingestion or inhalation must be avoided. Disposal protocols run in line with other moderate toxicity organic chemicals—secured waste containers and chemical neutralization where possible. Fire presents a risk given the organic structure, so chemical powder extinguishers or CO₂ apparatus should stay close at hand in case of emergency.
Production of N-Octyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bromide calls for raw materials like N-methylpyrrolidine and octyl bromide, supported by dry solvents and bromide scavengers for improved yield. These inputs reach high-purity standards in Europe, North America, and parts of Asia, delivering a consistent end product. Key uses extend into electrochemistry, organic synthesis, and separation sciences. The compound’s ability to act as a phase-transfer catalyst saves time and resources in multi-phase organic reactions. In my own experience, the compound simplifies ionic liquid synthesis, especially when searching for specific cation dynamics. Researchers often comment on its utility in membrane technology, given the balance between hydrophobic and hydrophilic character. Its compatibility with polar solvents like water, acetonitrile, and DMSO opens further doors for laboratory experimentation and scaling up to industry use.
The molecular architecture boasts a five-membered pyrrolidinium ring as the central moiety. An octyl chain attaches to the nitrogen, which lends flexibility and alters partitioning between phases. The methyl group boosts solubility in classic organic solvents and fine-tunes the thermal and chemical stability. The bromide anion remains tightly bound, providing electrical neutrality and further influencing melting points and solubility. This structure underpins features like high chemical stability at room temperature and tunable melting characteristics helpful for formulation chemists. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Mass Spectrometry confirm expected purity and provide the benchmarks for reliable supply. The balance of physical and chemical properties ensures broad application.
Wider use of N-Octyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bromide raises questions about downstream impact, especially on water systems and waste disposal. Some regions have tightened control on bromide-containing discharge, spurred by environmental preventive measures. Solutions start with in-house recycling or managed incineration, both successful in my own background with lab-scale syntheses. Suppliers moving toward greener synthetic paths—reduction of solvent use, improved atom economy, and use of renewable raw materials—mark the direction the industry needs for lower-impact chemicals. Encouraging direct feedback between procurement teams and suppliers on safe design and environmental certifications keeps the conversation real and effective.
N-Octyl-N-Methylpyrrolidinium Bromide has become an important raw material across research and manufacturing fields, thanks to its smart blend of solubility, stability, and molecular design. Taking time to understand the specifics—handling, chemical properties, and global compliance demands—sets up any research team or business for smoother runs, safer workspaces, and more sustainable outcomes in chemical innovation.
