Synthesis of Crystal α-Capric Betaine Surfactant

Crystal α-Capric betaine (α-CB) was prepared through ammonolysis of α-chlorododecanoic acid (α-CDA). This technology reduces the side product of α-hydroxyldodecanoic acid (α-HDA) efficiently. The effect of the ratio of reactants, reaction temperature and reaction time on quaternary amination of α-CDA with trimethylamine was investigated in orthogonal design. Optimization of process condition was approached as follows: n(trimethylamine)/ n(α-CDA) = 8:1, reacted for 10 hours at 80^oC. The yield of α-CB reached 93.1%.