Polyquaternium-6 is a copolymer, the polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride

The number is a chronological reference to the date of registration.

The name describes the structure of the molecule:

• Poly- comes from the Greek word meaning "many". In chemistry, "poly" indicates that a molecule consists of many repeating units.
• quaternium signifies the presence of quaternary nitrogen atoms in the molecule. Quaternary nitrogen atoms are nitrogen atoms with four substituents and a positive charge. 

Description of the raw materials:

• Quaternary Ammonium Compounds such as diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC), are one of the main raw materials for the production of Polyquaternium-6. These compounds contain quaternary groups that impart cationic properties to the polymer.
• Polymerizing Reagents such as acrylamide, are used to initiate the polymerization reaction and form Polyquaternium-6.

Summary of the industrial chemical synthesis process:

• Preparation of ingredients. Quaternary ammonium compounds, such as DADMAC, are prepared or acquired as the main reagents for the synthesis of Polyquaternium-6. Other necessary reagents, such as acrylamide and auxiliary reagents, are prepared or acquired.
• Polymerization reaction. Quaternary ammonium compounds and other reagents are mixed and placed in a chemical reactor. The polymerization reaction is initiated, usually by adding initiators or catalysts, to form Polyquaternium-6.
• Control of reaction conditions. During the polymerization reaction, specific conditions such as temperature, pressure, and pH are controlled and maintained to ensure proper polymer formation.
• Purification of the product. The reaction product undergoes purification processes to remove any impurities or unwanted residual reagents.
• Characterization of the product. The synthesized Polyquaternium-6 is characterized through chemical and physical analyses to confirm its identity and evaluate its properties, such as cationic charge, viscosity, and solubility.
• Formulation of the finished product. Polyquaternium-6 is incorporated into the formulation of hair and skin care products, along with other active and auxiliary ingredients.
• Production of the finished product. The complete formulation is produced in large quantities and packaged in appropriate containers for distribution and use.

It occurs as a colourless to light yellow liquid, soluble in water, insoluble in ester, hydrocarbons and ketone.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Antistatic agent. Static electricity build-up has a direct influence on products and causes electrostatic adsorption. The antistatic ingredient reduces static build-up and surface resistivity on the surface of the skin and hair.

Film-forming agent. It produces a continuous ultra-thin film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on the skin or hair to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.

Synonyms:

• Diallyldimethylammonium chloride
• Dimethyldiallylammonium chloride

Trade name:

• Calgon
• Agefloc WT 20

• Molecular Formula  C₈H₁₆ClN
• Molecular Weight  161.67 g/mol
• CAS  26062-79-3
• UNII    8MC08B895B
• EC Number  230-993-8