Hexadecylpyridinium bromide
Hexadecylpyridinium bromide (CAS: 140-72-7; Formula: C21H38BrN; Molar Mass: 384.44 g/mol) is a cationic surfactant with amphipathic properties. It functions as a detergent and exhibits biocidal activity. This compound is widely utilised in chemical synthesis, particularly as a phase transfer catalyst and in the formulation of various detergent products. Its amphiphilic nature makes it effective in reducing surface tension and aiding in solubilisation.
- IUPAC
- Cetylpyridinium bromide
- Synonyms
- Cetylpyridinium bromide

Cationic Detergent
Hexadecylpyridinium bromide serves as a cationic detergent due to its molecular structure, which possesses a positively charged hydrophilic head and a long hydrophobic tail. It is employed in cleaning formulations and as a wetting agent.
Chemical Synthesis Reagent
This compound is valuable in organic synthesis, acting as a phase transfer catalyst. It facilitates reactions between reactants located in different phases, such as aqueous and organic layers, by transferring ions across the phase boundary.
Biochemical Applications
As a biochemical reagent, it can be used in research settings for applications involving cell lysis, protein solubilisation, or as an antimicrobial agent in specific laboratory contexts.
| Molecular weight | 384.44 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C21H38BrN |
| Assay | ≥97.0% |

Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H330Fatal if inhaled
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
- H413May cause long-lasting harmful effects to aquatic life
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2811 6.1 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-26-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-28-36/37-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Description | cationic |
|---|
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Hexadecylpyridinium bromide primarily used for?
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Hexadecylpyridinium bromide is primarily used as a cationic detergent and in chemical synthesis, particularly as a phase transfer catalyst.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Hexadecylpyridinium bromide?
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The CAS number is 140-72-7 and the chemical formula is C21H38BrN.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Hexadecylpyridinium bromide?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Hexadecylpyridinium bromide with an assay of ≥97.0%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Hexadecylpyridinium bromide be handled safely?
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Handling requires extreme caution due to severe inhalation and skin hazards. Use in a well-ventilated area with appropriate personal protective equipment including eyeshields, face shields, gloves, and a high-efficiency respirator (N100 US type or P3 EN143 type).
How is Hexadecylpyridinium bromide packed and exported?
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Hexadecylpyridinium bromide is packed in compliance with relevant transport regulations, including UN 2811 classification, and is exported globally by Tech Serve Solutions.
How can I request a sample or quote for Hexadecylpyridinium bromide?
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Please contact our sales team directly through the website or via phone to request a sample or a formal quotation for Hexadecylpyridinium bromide.
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