Tetrabutylammonium bromide

Tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB, CAS 1643-19-2) is a quaternary ammonium salt supplied under trade names including Aliquat 100 and Actiron 43-65. It carries no E-code designation. The compound is classified under HS code 29239000 and falls within the broader category of salts and minerals.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, TBAB functions as a phase-transfer catalyst, shuttling anions across aqueous-organic interfaces to accelerate reactions that would otherwise proceed slowly or require harsh conditions. In personal care formulations, its quaternary ammonium structure binds to negatively charged hair surfaces, delivering conditioning performance. It also serves preservation roles in select applications due to its antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi.

TBAB is available in crystalline powder form and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU-based procurement. Buyers should confirm grade suitability against FCC or Ph.Eur. standards depending on the intended application. Standard packaging options vary by supplier; technical and high-purity grades are both commercially available.