Synthesis and surface-active properties of novel cleavable gemini surfactants

Abstract

A novel series of quaternary ammonium gemini compounds having a butynylene spacer and different hydrocarbon chain lengths (CGBu8-16) were prepared. Carbonate group inserted between the hydrocarbon chains and the polar heads make these compounds hydrolyzable. The degradation under hydrolysis of these novel series will lead to the generation of fatty alcohols and readily degradable compounds. The reagents used are biodegradable, renewable, or reusable. The surface activities and foamability in aqueous solution of the cleavable gemini compounds containing n-octyl, n-decyl, and n-dodecyl chains meet the criteria for being good surfactants and showed stable foams even at low concentrations.