Benzyltriethylammonium chloride, widely known in the industry as TEBAC or BTEAC, is one of the most frequently requested phase transfer catalysts in organic synthesis. Carrying CAS number 56-37-1, this quaternary ammonium salt allows reactions between reagents located in two immiscible phases – typically an aqueous phase and an organic phase – to proceed at practical rates and under milder conditions. For procurement teams at pharmaceutical intermediate producers, agrochemical manufacturers and specialty chemical plants, a reliable source of benzyltriethylammonium chloride with consistent purity is a small line item that protects a much larger production schedule. This article summarizes what TEBAC is, where it is commonly used, which quality parameters matter at industrial scale, and how to evaluate a supplier.
What Is Benzyltriethylammonium Chloride (TEBAC)?
TEBAC is a quaternary ammonium salt with the molecular formula C13H22ClN and a molecular weight of approximately 227.8 g/mol. Structurally, it combines a benzyl group and three ethyl groups around a positively charged nitrogen center, balanced by a chloride counterion. The product is typically supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Like most quaternary ammonium chlorides, it is hygroscopic and readily soluble in water and in polar organic solvents such as ethanol, while remaining essentially insoluble in nonpolar hydrocarbons.
This dual affinity is exactly what makes the molecule useful. The organic benzyl and ethyl groups give the cation enough lipophilicity to enter an organic phase, while the ionic character lets it pair with anions from an aqueous or solid phase. TEBAC belongs to the broader family of quaternary ammonium salts, a product group that also includes tetrabutylammonium and cetylpyridinium derivatives used across catalysis, water treatment and formulation work.
How TEBAC Works as a Phase Transfer Catalyst
In a typical two-phase reaction, a nucleophilic anion such as hydroxide, cyanide or an alkoxide sits in the aqueous phase, while the organic substrate stays in the organic phase. Without assistance, the two barely meet, and the reaction is slow or requires harsh conditions. A phase transfer catalyst such as TEBAC shuttles the anion across the interface: the quaternary ammonium cation forms an ion pair with the anion, carries it into the organic phase where the reaction takes place, and then returns to collect the next anion.
Compared with longer-chain analogues such as tetrabutylammonium bromide, TEBAC is relatively compact and economical, and it is often among the first catalysts screened for reactions run with concentrated aqueous sodium hydroxide. Reaction classes where benzyltriethylammonium chloride is commonly explored include:
- Dichlorocarbene generation from chloroform and concentrated NaOH, used in cyclopropanation and related chemistry
- N-, O- and C-alkylation reactions, including Williamson ether synthesis
- Esterification and transesterification under two-phase conditions
- Nucleophilic substitution reactions involving cyanide, azide or halide exchange
- Dehydrohalogenation and other base-promoted eliminations
Beyond classical phase transfer catalysis, TEBAC may be evaluated as an accelerator in certain epoxy and polymer curing systems, where quaternary ammonium salts can promote the reaction between epoxide and carboxyl or anhydride groups. Suitability in any specific formulation should always be confirmed by laboratory trials. Buyers comparing catalyst options can review our phase transfer catalysts range for alternatives such as TBAB and TBAC.
Typical Specifications and Quality Parameters
For industrial users, the datasheet numbers that matter most on benzyltriethylammonium chloride are usually the following:
- Assay (purity): commercial grades are generally offered at 98 percent minimum or 99 percent minimum. A higher assay reduces the load of inert or interfering species brought into the reactor.
- Moisture content: because the product is hygroscopic, water content should be specified and controlled. Excess moisture can affect charge accuracy and may cause caking during storage.
- Residual amines and benzyl chloride: free triethylamine and unreacted benzyl chloride are the typical process-related impurities. Low residual levels indicate a well-controlled quaternization and workup.
- Appearance and solubility: a clean white crystalline powder giving a clear, colorless aqueous solution is a quick practical indicator of batch quality.
- Heavy metals and ignition residue: relevant when the downstream product is a regulated intermediate with tight elemental impurity limits.
Consistent packaging also matters. TEBAC is normally packed in 25 kg drums or cartons with double inner liners to limit moisture pickup. It should be stored sealed, in a cool and dry area, away from strong oxidizers.
Sourcing TEBAC: What Buyers Should Check
Because TEBAC is a mature product within the fine chemicals space, price differences between suppliers are often modest – the real differentiators are consistency and service. When qualifying a source of benzyltriethylammonium chloride, experienced buyers typically ask for:
- A full certificate of analysis for each batch, with the test methods stated, not just the results
- Pre-shipment samples from the actual production lot, so laboratory verification matches the delivered goods
- Clear documentation for transport and customs, including SDS and correct HS classification
- Evidence of stable supply, such as regular production campaigns rather than one-off trading lots
- Responsive technical communication when an application question or a deviation arises
For buyers in the Middle East and other import markets, lead time reliability is often as important as the specification itself. A supplier who can commit to realistic production and shipping schedules from Chinese ports, and who communicates proactively when schedules move, reduces the hidden cost of safety stock.
Why AXIA CHEM
AXIA CHEM supplies benzyltriethylammonium chloride and a broad range of related quaternary ammonium salts and phase transfer catalysts to industrial customers worldwide, with a particular focus on the Middle East and Gulf markets. Every batch ships with a complete certificate of analysis, and pre-shipment samples are available so your laboratory can verify quality before the goods leave the port. Our team responds quickly to technical and commercial inquiries, supports flexible order quantities from trial lots to full container loads, and manages export documentation end to end.
If you are evaluating TEBAC for an existing process or a new project, send us your target specification and annual volume. Contact AXIA CHEM today for a quotation, current lead times and a sample of CAS 56-37-1.
Regulatory disclaimer: These products are supplied for research, formulation development, industrial and non-regulated applications. Final suitability for pharmaceutical, oral care, cosmetic, food-contact or biocidal applications shall be verified by the buyer according to local regulations. AXIA CHEM does not claim that any product is FDA approved, USP/EP certified, GMP grade or approved for any specific regulated end use unless otherwise confirmed in writing with supporting documentation.