Quaternary ammonium compounds manufactured by Akzo Nobel Surfactants are used globally in a wide variety of surfactant applications. The positively charged ammonium ion often conveys surfactant solubility in aqueous systems, and it makes the molecule substantive to many surfaces. Chloride is the typical counter ion for alkyl ammonium quaternaries, but sometimes it can be desirable to have another counter ion in its place. This might improve solubility of the quaternary, formulation stability, or compatibility with materials of construction that the surfactant contacts. For example, a quaternary carbonate will be noncorrosive to metals, and a quaternary with a fatty carboxylate counterion may enhance its solubility in relatively hydrophobic media. Akzo Nobel Surfactants has technologies for synthesizing quaternaries which incorporate these alternative counter ions. Depending upon the quaternary structure and solvent system, a variety of counter ions may be possible. This includes methosulfate, methocarbonate, acetate, bicarbonate, formate, fatty carboxylate, borate, and other anions. For some possible examples, see the compositions below:

Let us provide you the technical support to explore the many possibilities. Please contact your local Akzo Nobel Surfactants account manager, or visit us at the locations listed in this electronic publication.