Synthesis, surface active properties and antimicrobial activity of new bis quaternary ammonium compounds

Abstract

New dimeric surfactants 1 and 2 containing two saturated hydrocarbon chains and two quaternary ammonium salts linked through an alkene spacer chain with amide and disulfide bonds have been prepared from a betaine type amphoteric surfactant. They show a high effectiveness of adsorption in comparison with their single chain homologues. Surfactants 1 and 2 are very water soluble compounds with extraordinary micelle-forming properties. Both are very active against a wide range of microorganisms including gram negative bacteria.