Myristyl-γ-picolinium Chloride NEW

Myristyl γ-Picolinium Chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound used primarily as a surfactant and antimicrobial agent. The name breaks down as:

• Myristyl: A 14-carbon alkyl chain (from myristic acid) that provides oil-solubility and disrupts cell membranes.

  γ-Picolinium: The cationic head group derived from gamma-picoline (4-methylpyridine), a heterocyclic aromatic amine.

  Chloride: The counter-anion that balances the positive charge.

Chemical Structure and Properties

• Chemical Class: Cationic surfactant (Quat).

  Key Feature: It is a salt where the nitrogen atom of the picoline ring is permanently charged (quaternized) and bonded to the myristyl group. This structure makes it a potent biocide.

  Solubility: Soluble in water and polar organic solvents due to its ionic nature.

Primary Mechanism and Uses

Its positively charged head is strongly attracted to negatively charged surfaces, such as bacterial cell membranes and hair proteins.

1. Antimicrobial Action: It binds to and disrupts microbial cell walls and membranes, causing cell death. It is effective against bacteria and fungi.

2. Hair Conditioner: In cosmetics, it acts as a conditioning agent. Its positive charge neutralizes static and coats the negatively charged hair shaft, making hair feel softer and smoother.

3. Fabric Softener: Works on the same principle as hair conditioning, softening fabrics by neutralizing static cling.

In summary, it is a synthetic cationic surfactant valued for its antimicrobial, conditioning, and softening properties.