Aliquat 336 is a mixture of C₈ (octyl) and C₁₀ (decyl) chains with C₈ predominating. It is a quaternary ammonium salt used as a phase transfer catalyst

Phase transfer catalyst

In chemistry, a phase transfer catalyst or PTC is a catalyst that facilitates the migration of a reactant from one phase into another phase where reaction occurs. Phase transfer catalysis is a special form of heterogeneous catalysis. Ionic reactants are often soluble in an aqueous phase but...

 and metal extraction reagent.

Applications

Aliquat 336 is used as a phase transfer catalyst, including in the catalytic oxidation of cyclohexene

Cyclohexene

Cyclohexene is a hydrocarbon with the formula C6H10. This cycloalkene is a colorless liquid with a sharp smell. It is an intermediate in various industrial processes...

 to 1,6-hexanedioic acid. This reaction is more environmentally friendly. It is an example of green chemistry

Green chemistry

Green chemistry, also called sustainable chemistry, is a philosophy of chemical research and engineering that encourages the design of products and processes that minimize the use and generation of hazardous substances...

, compared with the traditional method of oxidizing cyclohexanol

Cyclohexanol

Cyclohexanol is the organic compound with the formula 5CHOH. The molecule is related to cyclohexane ring by replacement of one hydrogen atom by a hydroxyl group. This compound exists as a deliquescent colorless solid, which, when very pure, melts near room temperature...

 or cyclohexanone

Cyclohexanone

Cyclohexanone is the organic compound with the formula 5CO. The molecule consists of six-carbon cyclic molecule with a ketone functional group. This colorless oil has an odor reminiscent of peardrop sweets as well as acetone. Over time, samples assume a yellow color due to oxidation...

 with nitric acid

Nitric acid

Nitric acid , also known as aqua fortis and spirit of nitre, is a highly corrosive and toxic strong acid.Colorless when pure, older samples tend to acquire a yellow cast due to the accumulation of oxides of nitrogen. If the solution contains more than 86% nitric acid, it is referred to as fuming...

or potassium permanganate

Potassium permanganate

Potassium permanganate is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula KMnO4. It is a salt consisting of K+ and MnO4− ions. Formerly known as permanganate of potash or Condy's crystals, it is a strong oxidizing agent. It dissolves in water to give intensely purple solutions, the...

, which produce hazardous wastes.