Quaternium 15

Quaternium 15 (CAS 4080-31-3), also known commercially as Dowicil 100, is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative used across industrial and personal care formulations to control microbial growth. It functions as a broad-spectrum biocide effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold in water-based systems. In personal care and cosmetics, it preserves rinse-off and leave-on products.

This includes shampoos, conditioners, and lotions at low use concentrations. Industrial water treatment systems rely on it to prevent microbial fouling in cooling towers and process water circuits. Coatings and adhesive manufacturers incorporate it into water-based paints, latex adhesives, and sealants to extend shelf life and in-can stability during long-term storage.

Textile, leather, and paper processing operations use it to protect wet-processed materials and finished goods from bacterial and fungal degradation during production and storage. The chemical is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is available in technical and cosmetic grades, with cosmetic-grade material conforming to specific standards.

These specifications are relevant for personal care registration and compliance. Packaging typically ranges from kilogram quantities up to bulk drum supply depending on the grade.