INCI: Polquaternium-78

CAS#: 1023302-86-4

Raw Material: polymerized alkyl

Polyquaternium-78 is a renewable and eco-friendly substitute for petroleum-based materials. (1,2,3) It does not contain EO, 1,4-dioxane, or residual acrylic monomers. (1,2,3)

This ingredient is synthesized from polymerized Alkyl Polyglucosides (APGs), a non-ionic surfactant from renewable plant-based sources like Cellulose (plant cell walls), Guar Gum (guar beans), & Chitosan (crustacean shells). (6)

The structure of these polymeric APGs is modified by incorporating cationic groups derived from natural and sustainable resources. The ingredient acquires anti-corrosive properties by strategically attaching these cationic groups along the APG backbone. This innovative process results in products that are derived from nature and contribute to sustainability. (1,3)

This modification is beneficial because the cationic groups carry a positive charge that enables them to stick to negatively charged surfaces, such as skin and hair. (3,4) These cationic groups have conditioning properties that improve hair and skin's softness, smoothness, shine, and manageability. (1)

These surfactants are mild, biodegradable, and can be combined with other ingredients. (1,3) They can be added to cosmetic products for conditioning, stabilizing, emulsifying, dispersing, and substantivity effects. (1) Their functionality and performance are enhanced through modification.

The production process of Polquaternium-78 is designed to be gentle on the environment. (1,2,3) However, its success depends on specific manufacturing practices. The process involves several steps, including the reaction of polymerized APGs with quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) and cationic surfactants. (1,2,3) The resulting mixture of polymers is then purified and blended to form the final product.

 It is important to note that these steps could have negative environmental impacts due to energy consumption, water usage, chemicals involved, and waste management. (5)

 1 - https://colonialchem.com/products/poly-sugaquat-l-1010p/

2 - https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/3476/99242/Poly-SugaQuat-L-1010P

3 - https://www.formulatorsampleshop.com/poly-suga-quat-l-1010p-polyquaternium-78.html

4 - https://colonialchem.com/wp-content/uploads/Poly-SugaQuat-TDS-EP.pdf

5 - https://colonialchem.me/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Poly-SugaQuat-L-1010P-SDS-US-15-Apr-2019.pdf

6 - https://www.ulprospector.com/knowledge/14571/pcc-polyquaterniums-in-cosmetic-formulas/