Esterquats: the novel class of cationic fabric softeners.

Esterquats, which are quaternary ammonium compounds having two long (C(16)-C(18)) fatty acid chains with 2 weak ester linkages, represent a new generation of fabric softening agents, having replaced the dialkyldimethylammonium salts (e.g. DTDMAC and DSDMAC). The inclusion of ester linkages into the aliphatic chains has significantly improved the kinetics of biodegradation of the cationic surfactants, lowering the environmental exposure levels. This new generation of fabric softening agents combines a good environmental profile with the structural features required for an effective fabric conditioner. The present paper reviews the synthesis, types, actives combines a good environmental profile with the structural features required for a properties and applications of esterquats.