Synthesis and Evaluation of Cationic Surfactants

Gemini cationic surfactant was prepared by the quaternization of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl dodecanoate with 1,3-phenylene bis(2-chloroacetate). Gemini surfactants possess a distinctive chemical structure that sets them apart from traditional surfactants. They contain two hydrophilic heads, and two hydrophobic tails that are connected together by a spacer group as methylene or stilbene. If the properties of the prepared Gemini surfactants are compared with conventional, these surfactants have a higher performance efficiency at lower concentrations so; small amounts are needed. They are more effective at reducing the surface and interfacial tension giving lower values of CMC, also have better aggregation structures which lead to the more economically favored in industrial field. The prepared compound shows good surface properties as suitable emulsifying agent in cosmetics applications.