Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, C12-14-alkyl(hydroxyethyl)dimethyl, Ethoxylated, Chlorides

This ethoxylated, hydroxyethyl-modified quaternary ammonium compound is used as a cationic surfactant in alkaline pre-wash and cleaning formulations. Unlike benzalkonium chloride (ADBAC), it does not carry a benzyl group — it has a hydroxyethyl modification that increases water solubility and reduces the occupational sensitization potential associated with ADBAC-type quats. No H334 (respiratory sensitizer) or H317 (skin sensitizer) classification is assigned to this compound class. At the ingredient level, it carries aquatic toxicity (Daphnia 48H EC50 1–10 mg/l) and serious eye damage (H318). At working dilutions in consumer products (1–5% ingredient in concentrate, further diluted to 1–5% PIR at the panel), the classification steps down from H318 to potential eye irritation. The surfactant class complies with EU 648/2004 biodegradability requirements for detergent ingredients.