Choline chloride
Choline chloride is an organic compound with the formula Template:Chem2. It is a quaternary ammonium salt, consisting of choline cations (Template:Chem2) and chloride anions (Template:Chem2). It is a bifunctional compound, meaning, it contains both a quaternary ammonium functional group and a hydroxyl functional group. The cation of this salt, choline, occurs in nature in living beings.[1] Choline chloride is a white, water-soluble salt used mainly in animal feed.[2]
Synthesis
In the laboratory, choline can be prepared by methylation of dimethylethanolamine with methyl chloride.
Choline chloride is mass-produced with world production estimated at 160 000 tons in 1999.[2] Industrially, it is produced by the reaction of ethylene oxide, hydrogen chloride, and trimethylamine,[3] or from the pre-formed salt:[4]
Choline chloride can also be made by treating trimethylamine with 2-chloroethanol.[5]
Applications
It is an important additive in feed especially for chickens where it accelerates growth. It forms a deep eutectic solvent with urea, ethylene glycol, glycerol, and many other compounds.
It is also used as a clay control additive in fluids used for hydraulic fracturing.[6]
Related salts
Other commercial choline salts are choline hydroxide and choline bitartrate. In foodstuffs, the compound is often present as phosphatidylcholine.
References
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- ↑ title=Johnson Matthey Process Technology - Choline chloride licensed process
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