Quaternium-18

Quaternium-18 (CAS 61789-80-8) is a dialkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium chloride derived from hydrogenated tallow. It functions as a cationic conditioning agent and surface-active compound across personal care, textile, and industrial applications.

In hair care and rinse-off conditioners, it deposits onto negatively charged hair fibers to reduce static, improve combability, and deliver a smooth feel. Fabric softeners rely on it to impart softness and antistatic performance to textile substrates.

During rinse cycles, it provides essential conditioning properties. In textile and leather processing, it acts as a fiber lubricant and surface modifier that improves handle and reduces friction during manufacturing processes.

Industrial and institutional cleaning formulations use it as a biocidal or conditioning additive where cationic surface activity is required. This versatile chemical is commercially available as a liquid or paste for various uses.

It is typically supplied as a 75% active concentrate in isopropanol or water-based carrier systems. Technical and cosmetic grades are the standard market offerings, with cosmetic-grade material meeting high purity requirements.

These standards ensure it is suitable for rinse-off and leave-on personal care formulations. Bulk supply is standard in drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) to meet the demands of large-scale industrial manufacturing.