OA-12 generally refers to Oleylamine, specifically a C18 primary fatty amine. Oleylamine is derived from oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid, and consists of a long hydrophobic alkyl chain (C18) attached to a hydrophilic amine group (–NH₂). It is a surfactant-like molecule widely used in a variety of industrial and chemical applications.

• Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₃₅NH₂

• Molecular Weight: Approximately 269.48 g/mol

• Appearance: Oleylamine is typically a yellowish liquid at room temperature.

• Hydrophobic tail: The long carbon chain makes oleylamine highly hydrophobic.

• Hydrophilic head: The amine group (–NH₂) gives it some degree of hydrophilicity and reactivity, enabling it to interact with other molecules and surfaces.

1. Surfactant and Dispersant: Oleylamine is commonly used as a surfactant or dispersant in non-aqueous systems, such as in the production of nanoparticles, due to its ability to stabilize colloidal particles in organic solvents.

2. Corrosion Inhibitor: It is used in various industries (e.g., oil and gas) to prevent the corrosion of metals, especially in environments containing water and oxygen.

3. Functionalization of Nanoparticles: In nanotechnology, oleylamine is used to stabilize and modify the surfaces of nanoparticles (e.g., gold, iron oxide) to prevent aggregation and improve compatibility with organic solvents.

4. Catalyst: In chemical synthesis, oleylamine acts as a ligand or catalyst for various reactions, including the synthesis of nanomaterials.

5. Lubricants and Coatings: Oleylamine is used as an additive in lubricants and coatings due to its surface-active properties.

Oleylamine can have some emulsifying capabilities because of its amphiphilic structure, but it is not as commonly used as a dedicated emulsifier in standard formulations like food or cosmetics. It is better suited to niche applications such as stabilizing non-aqueous emulsions or acting as a surfactant in organic solvents.

OA-12 (Oleylamine) is a versatile compound used primarily in industrial applications as a surfactant, dispersant, and corrosion inhibitor. Its long hydrophobic tail and reactive amine group make it suitable for stabilizing nanoparticles and modifying surfaces in non-aqueous environments.