The synthesis and solubility studies of eicosyl-p-methoxycinnamate

Eicosyl-p-methoxycinnamate was synthesized by the transesterification of 2-ethylhexyl-p-methoxycinnamate with 1-eicosanol in the presence of hydrated AlCl$\sb3.$ After synthesis the solubility of the eicosyl-p-methoxycinnamate was considered in a variety of surfactants in order to broaden the understanding gained with the C$\sb{10}$ to C$\sb{18}$ esters. The solubility was determined using the ultraviolet absorption of the cinnamate ester. The surfactants considered were: Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl-2EO-Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl-3EO-Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl-7EO-Sulfate, Sodium Dodecyl Benzene Sulfonate, Sodium Dodecyl Sulfosuccinate, Sulfobetaine (MCBS), Tegobetaine L-7 (Cocoamido Propyl Betaine), HM Special (Lauroampho Acetate), and Triton X-100 (Octyl Phenoxypolyethoxy Ethanol). The results in terms of solubility and changes in the ultraviolet absorption maximum are presented, with the implications for location of the ester in the micelle discussed.