Hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride

Hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (CAS 112-02-7), commonly known as CTAC or cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, is a cationic quaternary ammonium surfactant used across personal care, pharmaceutical, and industrial water treatment sectors. Its positive charge enables strong adsorption onto negatively charged surfaces, driving its use as a conditioning agent, emulsifier, and biocide. In hair care formulations, it is a primary conditioning active in rinse-out conditioners.

The material deposits onto damaged hair fiber to reduce static and improve combability. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as an antimicrobial preservative and surface-active agent in topical creams, lotions, and ophthalmic preparations. Water treatment operations employ it as a biocidal agent to control microbial growth in cooling towers and industrial process water. In fabric softeners and textile finishing, it functions as an antistatic and softening agent.

Hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride is supplied as an aqueous solution, typically at 25–30% active content. It is also available as a white to off-white powder or flakes for applications requiring dry handling. Cosmetic-grade and technical-grade specifications are the most commercially available. Cosmetic grades are subject to purity requirements aligned with PCPC and Ph. Eur. standards to ensure safety and efficacy.

Packaging ranges from drums to IBC totes for liquid grades, with bags available for solid forms. This versatile chemical remains a staple for formulators seeking reliable surface modification and antimicrobial properties.