Quaternium-8 (inci)

Quaternium (see also Polyquaternium) is a particularly prominent group of complex ammonium compounds, which are also called quats under the generic term "quaternary ammonium compounds". Quaternary ammonium compounds, i.e. also quaternium (and polyquaternium) have a quaternary nitrogen atom, i.e. a nitrogen atom in which all four hydrogen atoms are replaced by organic radicals. In contrast to polyquaternium (polymer, consists of several quats), quaternium-8 is a monomer.

Quaternium-8 is used in cosmetic formulations. The substance acts as an antimicrobial agent.