Preparation of benzalkonium salts differing in the length of a side alkyl Chain

Abstract

Benzalkonium salts are widely used as disinfectants, biocides and detergents, among a variety of other applications. The cationic surface-activity of these salts determines their potential to act as a biocide on both target and non-target organisms. In this study, a quick synthesis of a complete set of the benzalkonium salts differing in the length of an alkylating chain (from C2 to C20) is described. Moreover, their 1H-NMR, HPLC-MS, TLC and HPLC analysis were recorded. © 2007 by MDPI.