Cetyltrimethylammonium chloride

Cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC, CAS 112-02-7) is a quaternary ammonium cationic surfactant supplied under trade names including Arquad 16-50, Varisoft 300, Morpan CHA, and Aliquat 6. It carries no assigned E-code. Its positively charged head group drives strong adsorption onto negatively charged surfaces such as hair, skin, and cell membranes.

In hair care formulations, CTAC deposits onto the anionic keratin surface, reducing friction and delivering conditioning performance. In water treatment, its cationic charge disrupts bacterial cell membranes, providing biocidal action against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as an emulsifying and wetting agent in topical preparations and controlled-release systems.

CTAC is available in liquid and amorphous powder grades, with concentrations typically ranging from 25% to 50% active. The substance is registered under REACH and appears in INCI nomenclature as Cetrimonium Chloride. Packaging commonly includes drums and IBCs for bulk procurement.