Dodecyl

Dodecyl is the straight-chain alkyl substituent with 12 carbon atoms, commonly represented by the formula C12H25−. It is derived from dodecane by removing one hydrogen atom, and in chemical nomenclature the unbranched form is called n-dodecyl. Branched isomeric forms also exist, but are usually specified only when relevant.

As a long hydrocarbon tail, the dodecyl group is highly hydrophobic and is used to confer nonpolar character to molecules. It is widely employed as a substituent in surfactants and detergents, where the dodecyl tail interacts with oils while the polar headgroup provides solubility in water. The hydrophobic tail length influences properties such as micelle formation and oil solubility, affecting overall surfactant performance.

Common derivatives include dodecyl alcohol (lauryl alcohol), dodecyl sulfate (lauryl sulfate) and its sodium salt, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and dodecylbenzene sulfonate derivatives. Dodecylamine is another example, formed by introducing an amino group onto the dodecyl chain. These compounds are found in a range of industrial and consumer products, from detergents and cleaners to reagents in biochemical laboratories.

Applications and handling: dodecyl-containing compounds are used in household and industrial detergents, shampoos, emulsifiers, and as reagents in chemical and biochemical workflows. SDS, in particular, is a standard surfactant and a widely used protein denaturant in electrophoresis. Safety considerations depend on the specific compound; many dodecyl derivatives can be irritants in concentrated forms, requiring appropriate personal protective equipment and adherence to safety data guidelines.