Amine Oxide

Amine oxide is an organic compound with the formula R3 N+-O-. It has three "R" groups and an oxygen bonded to a central nitrogen atom. The nitrogen atom in an amine oxide always carries a formal positive charge and the oxygen atoms carry a formal negative charge.

Amine oxides are weak bases with a pKb of around 4.5. They are very hydrophilic and have an excellent water solubility and a very poor solubility in most organic solvents.

Amine oxides are produced by reacting a tertiary amine with hydrogen peroxide. The resultant

surfactant is classified as nonionic.

Amine oxides are also known as amine N-oxide and N-oxide.

Amine oxides (AO) are not known to be carcinogens, dermal sensitizers, or reproductive toxicants. They are readily metabolized and excreted if ingested. Chronic ingestion by rabbits found lower body weight, diarrhea, and lenticular opacities at a lowest observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL) in the range of 87–150 mg AO/kw bw/day. Tests of human skin exposure have found that after 8 hours less than 1% is absorbed into the body. Eye irritation due to amine oxides and other surfactants is moderate and temporary with no lasting effects.