Understanding Cetyl Bromide: Key Properties and Industrial Uses

Understanding Cetyl Bromide: Key Properties and Industrial Uses

Jan 10, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Cetyl bromide, also known as 1-bromohexadecane, is a brominated alkane widely recognized for its unique chemical properties and versatility in various industrial applications. As a specialized compound, cetyl bromide is integral to processes ranging from organic synthesis to the formulation of surfactants. This blog explores the chemical structure, physical properties, and primary applications of cetyl bromide, emphasizing its importance across multiple industries.

Chemical Structure and Properties of Cetyl Bromide

Cetyl bromide is an organic compound with the molecular formula C16H33Br, consisting of a long carbon chain attached to a bromine atom. This structure classifies it as a brominated alkane.

Key Chemical Properties

  1. Molecular Weight: Approximately 305.35 g/mol.
  2. Appearance: A colorless to slightly yellow liquid or solid, depending on temperature and purity.
  3. Boiling Point: About 160°C at reduced pressure, indicating moderate thermal stability.
  4. Solubility: Insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents such as alcohols and ethers, making it a versatile reactant in organic synthesis.

These properties allow cetyl bromide to act as a key intermediary in the production of complex chemical compounds.

Industrial Applications of Cetyl Bromide

Cetyl bromide’s structure and reactivity make it valuable in various industrial sectors. Below are its most prominent applications:

1. Organic Synthesis

Cetyl bromide is a significant building block in organic chemistry. Its bromine atom readily participates in nucleophilic substitution reactions, allowing for the creation of long-chain compounds used in diverse chemical formulations.

  • Surfactants and Detergents: Cetyl bromide is often used to produce quaternary ammonium salts, which serve as surfactants in personal care products and industrial cleaning agents.
  • Specialty Chemicals: It acts as a precursor in synthesizing compounds with specific functional properties, such as water-repellent coatings and lubricants.

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry

The compound is a key ingredient in the manufacture of cationic surfactants, which are vital for hair conditioners, skin creams, and emulsifiers in personal care formulations. Cetyl bromide ensures products maintain their texture and functionality while enhancing their stability.

3. Pharmaceutical Industry

In the pharmaceutical sector, cetyl bromide is utilized as an intermediate in drug synthesis. Its long alkyl chain contributes to the development of compounds with enhanced solubility and stability, critical for producing certain active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

4. Fabric and Textile Treatment

Cetyl bromide is used in the production of antistatic agents and fabric softeners. These compounds are especially crucial in modern textile treatment, ensuring comfort and durability in synthetic fabrics.

5. Industrial Cleaning Agents

Cetyl bromide-derived surfactants are essential components of industrial cleaning formulations. They provide superior cleaning efficiency by breaking down oils, greases, and other contaminants on various surfaces.

Safety and Handling Considerations

As with all chemical compounds, the safe handling of cetyl bromide is crucial. It should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated environment. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary when handling the compound to avoid exposure risks, such as skin and eye irritation. Additionally, compliance with regulatory guidelines ensures both workplace safety and environmental protection.

Why Choose Cetyl Bromide for Your Industry?

Cetyl bromide’s broad range of applications across industries highlights its versatility and significance. Whether in organic synthesis, personal care products, or industrial cleaning, this compound consistently delivers high performance and reliability. However, sourcing high-purity cetyl bromide is essential to achieving optimal results in your applications.

When to Contact Rock Chemicals Inc for Bulk Orders of Cetyl Bromide

Selecting a reliable supplier is a critical step in sourcing cetyl bromide for industrial use. Rock Chemicals Inc specializes in providing high-quality cetyl bromide in bulk quantities, ensuring you receive consistent and reliable products tailored to your needs.

With a strong commitment to product quality, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service, Rock Chemicals Inc is your trusted partner for chemical supply solutions. Contact Rock Chemicals Inc today to discuss your requirements for cetyl bromide and ensure seamless delivery for your industrial applications.

The Role of Copper Sulfate in Agriculture: Fungicide, Algaecide, and Soil Additive

The Role of Copper Sulfate in Agriculture: Fungicide, Algaecide, and Soil Additive

Apr 18, 2025
by
Rishard Ali

In modern agriculture, copper sulfate plays a vital role in supporting crop health and improving productivity. This blue crystalline compound—comprised of copper, sulfur, and oxygen—has long been valued for its multifunctional properties as a fungicide, algaecide, and micronutrient-rich soil additive. Whether applied to vineyards, vegetable crops, or turfgrass, copper sulfate is a trusted ally for growers seeking to maintain healthy plants, reduce disease pressure, and ensure optimal nutrient balance.  

Zinc Carbonate: Uses, Properties, and Why Quality Matters

Zinc Carbonate: Uses, Properties, and Why Quality Matters

Apr 18, 2025
by
Rishard Ali

Zinc carbonate is a versatile white, odorless powder widely used in various industrial and commercial applications. As a key source of zinc, it plays an essential role in products ranging from pharmaceuticals to ceramics, cosmetics, and agriculture. But not all zinc carbonate is created equal. Understanding its properties and applications—and why quality and purity matter—can help buyers make informed decisions when sourcing this important compound.

Understanding the Different Grades of Zinc Sulfate: Industrial vs. Agricultural vs. Pharmaceutical

Understanding the Different Grades of Zinc Sulfate: Industrial vs. Agricultural vs. Pharmaceutical

Apr 18, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Zinc sulfate is a versatile inorganic compound used across various industries, from agriculture and pharmaceuticals to manufacturing and water treatment. Available primarily in monohydrate and heptahydrate forms, zinc sulfate plays a crucial role in numerous applications—each requiring specific quality standards. Understanding the differences between industrial, agricultural, and pharmaceutical grades of zinc sulfate is essential for buyers looking to source the right material for their unique needs.  

Ethyl Bromide vs. Other Alkyl Halides: What Sets It Apart?

Ethyl Bromide vs. Other Alkyl Halides: What Sets It Apart?

Apr 11, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

In the world of organic chemistry, alkyl halides are foundational compounds used in countless industrial and research applications. Among them, ethyl bromide (also known as bromoethane) stands out due to its unique combination of reactivity, versatility, and handling ease. While it may appear similar to other alkyl halides at first glance, ethyl bromide possesses distinct properties that make it a preferred choice in many chemical processes.  

Why the Agrochemical Industry Relies on Hydrobromic Acid

Why the Agrochemical Industry Relies on Hydrobromic Acid

Apr 11, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Hydrobromic acid (HBr), a strong and highly reactive acid, plays a crucial role in various industrial sectors, but it holds particular importance in the agrochemical industry. From synthesizing key intermediates to enabling the production of active compounds, hydrobromic acid serves as a foundational chemical in agricultural formulations that help farmers boost crop yields and protect against pests.  

Key Considerations When Buying Copper Carbonate from a Supplier

Key Considerations When Buying Copper Carbonate from a Supplier

Apr 11, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Copper carbonate is a vital compound used across multiple industries, from agriculture and ceramics to chemical manufacturing and pigments. Whether you’re sourcing it for industrial formulations, fertilizers, or as a precursor to other copper compounds, choosing the right supplier is essential for ensuring quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance.  

Key Considerations When Buying Monoethanolamine from a Supplier

Key Considerations When Buying Monoethanolamine from a Supplier

Apr 04, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Monoethanolamine (MEA) is a versatile chemical used in various industries, including gas treatment, pharmaceuticals, personal care, and agriculture. As an essential component in many formulations, it is crucial to source high-quality MEA from a reliable supplier. If you're in the market for Monoethanolamine, here are key factors to consider before making a purchase.  

The Role of Potassium Iodide in Pharmaceuticals: Uses and Benefits

The Role of Potassium Iodide in Pharmaceuticals: Uses and Benefits

Apr 04, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Potassium iodide (KI) is a crucial compound widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for its various medicinal properties. This inorganic salt of potassium and iodine plays a vital role in thyroid health, radiation protection, and respiratory treatments.

The Role of Glycol Ether in Paints & Coatings: Why It’s Essential

The Role of Glycol Ether in Paints & Coatings: Why It’s Essential

Apr 04, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Glycol ethers play a critical role in the paints and coatings industry, serving as effective solvents that enhance performance, improve application, and ensure a high-quality finish. These versatile chemicals are widely used in both water-based and solvent-based formulations, contributing to faster drying times, better flow, and increased durability.

The Role of Potassium Iodide in Oil & Gas Drilling Fluids

The Role of Potassium Iodide in Oil & Gas Drilling Fluids

Mar 21, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

The oil and gas industry relies on high-performance drilling fluids to ensure the success of exploration and extraction operations. Among the many additives used to enhance drilling fluid performance, potassium iodide (KI) plays a crucial role in improving fluid stability, lubricity, and wellbore integrity.

The Importance of High-Purity Sodium Bromide in Pharmaceutical Applications

The Importance of High-Purity Sodium Bromide in Pharmaceutical Applications

Mar 21, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Sodium bromide (NaBr) is a crucial chemical compound in the pharmaceutical industry, widely used as a reagent and solvent in drug synthesis. Its effectiveness in various medical applications depends largely on its purity. High-purity sodium bromide ensures that pharmaceutical products meet regulatory standards, maintain efficacy, and remain free from harmful contaminants.

Fertilizer made with Hydrobromic Acid applied to agriculture crop.

Why Quality Matters: Choosing the Right Supplier for Hydrobromic Acid in Agriculture

Mar 21, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Hydrobromic acid (HBr) is a critical chemical in the agriculture industry, particularly in the production of fertilizers and pesticides. It serves as a strong acid used in chemical synthesis, helping to create essential brominated compounds that enhance crop protection and soil health.

Key Considerations When Buying Antimony Trioxide from a Supplier

Key Considerations When Buying Antimony Trioxide from a Supplier

Mar 14, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Antimony Trioxide (ATO) is a widely used chemical compound, primarily known for its role as a flame retardant in plastics, textiles, and coatings. It also finds applications in glass, ceramics, and as a catalyst in various industrial processes. When sourcing ATO for your business, it’s crucial to evaluate several key factors to ensure quality, compliance, and cost-effectiveness. Below are essential considerations when choosing an antimony trioxide supplier.  

How to Choose a Trusted Cobalt Hydroxide Crystal Supplier

How to Choose a Trusted Cobalt Hydroxide Crystal Supplier

Feb 08, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Cobalt hydroxide crystal is a crucial compound used in various industries, including battery manufacturing, catalysts, ceramics, and pigments. Whether you are a manufacturer or a researcher, sourcing high-quality cobalt hydroxide from a reliable supplier is essential for maintaining product consistency and performance. Choosing the right supplier involves evaluating several key factors, such as quality control, certifications, and supply chain reliability. In this blog, we will explore the critical aspects you should consider when selecting a trusted cobalt hydroxide crystal supplier.  

Cobalt Chloride Crystal: Bulk Purchasing vs. Small-Scale Orders from a Supplier

Cobalt Chloride Crystal: Bulk Purchasing vs. Small-Scale Orders from a Supplier

Feb 08, 2025
by
Armon Agheli

Cobalt chloride crystal is a versatile chemical compound widely used in humidity indicators, catalysts, electroplating, and research applications. Whether you need it for industrial-scale manufacturing or laboratory testing, choosing between bulk purchasing and small-scale orders is a key decision that impacts cost, storage, and supply chain efficiency. Both bulk and small-scale orders have their advantages and drawbacks. Understanding when to opt for each can help businesses and researchers make informed purchasing decisions.  

Key Considerations When Buying Cobalt Acetate Crystal from a Supplier

Key Considerations When Buying Cobalt Acetate Crystal from a Supplier

Feb 08, 2025
by
PageFly

Cobalt acetate crystal is a widely used chemical compound, valued for its applications in catalysts, pigments, and various industrial processes. Whether you are sourcing cobalt acetate for laboratory use, chemical manufacturing, or industrial applications, choosing the right supplier is crucial to ensuring product quality and consistency. Before making a purchase, there are several key factors to consider, including purity, sourcing, and supplier reliability.  

n-Hexyl Bromide in the Agrochemical Industry: Supporting Modern Agriculture

n-Hexyl Bromide in the Agrochemical Industry: Supporting Modern Agriculture

Dec 27, 2024
by
Armon Agheli

The agrochemical industry plays a vital role in ensuring global food security by developing solutions to protect crops from pests, diseases, and weeds. Central to the creation of these solutions is the use of specialized chemical intermediates like n-hexyl bromide. As a halogenated hydrocarbon, n-hexyl bromide (C6H13Br) is a versatile compound that serves as a precursor in the synthesis of herbicides, pesticides, and other agrochemical products.

The Role of Amyl Bromide in the Fragrance and Flavor Industry

The Role of Amyl Bromide in the Fragrance and Flavor Industry

Dec 27, 2024
by
Armon Agheli

The fragrance and flavor industry relies on a diverse array of chemical compounds to create the unique scents and tastes that define countless products, from perfumes to food and beverages. One critical compound in this industry is amyl bromide (1-bromopentane), a versatile halogenated organic compound.