Octadecyltrimethylammonium iodide

Octadecyltrimethylammonium iodide (CAS 4292-25-5, formula C21H46N.I) is a quaternary ammonium salt belonging to the cationic surfactant class. It carries no assigned E-code or common trade abbreviation in standard industry references. The compound is categorized under surfactants and is distinct from structurally unrelated quaternary salts sometimes listed under similar trade names.

In water treatment, the cationic charge allows it to adsorb onto negatively charged particle surfaces, promoting flocculation and facilitating contaminant removal. In textile and leather processing, it modifies fiber surface charge to improve dye uptake and inter-fiber lubrication. Its quaternary nitrogen head group also supports emulsion stabilization in formulation systems requiring controlled droplet dispersion.

Octadecyltrimethylammonium iodide is supplied for industrial and research-grade applications and falls under REACH registration obligations for quantities above one tonne per year within the EU. Procurement teams should confirm purity specifications and packaging formats directly with the supplier, as these vary by production batch and intended application.