Abstract
The intrinsic properties of cationic surfactants as represented by quaternary ammonium compounds have resulted in a variety of uses and a high level of popularity for these chemicals among users. Quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) possess surface-active properties, detergency, and antimicrobial properties, including activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The quaternary ammonium compounds are produced by the nucleophilic substitution reaction of tertiary amines by an alkyl halide, benzyl chloride, or similar material. In the United States, disinfectants are defined as antimicrobials that eliminate specific vegetative microorganisms but not necessarily bacterial spores. Quaternary ammonium compounds have a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity with reported activity, against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, yeast, mold, viruses, and protozoans. Early on, it was recognized that gram-positive bacteria differ from gram-negative bacteria in susceptibility to the action of QACs. Quaternary ammonium compounds also have fungicidal activity.
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