Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, often referred to as quats, are a group of chemicals that consist of a nitrogen atom bonded to four organic groups. They are commonly used as disinfectants, surfactants, and fabric softeners due to their ability to kill bacteria and viruses. Their effectiveness makes them popular in various cleaning products and sanitizers.
These compounds are typically cationic, meaning they carry a positive charge, which helps them adhere to surfaces and disrupt microbial cell membranes. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds are widely utilized in healthcare settings, households, and industrial applications for their antimicrobial properties and ability to reduce surface tension in liquids.