Quaternary Ammonium Compound
Letter: q
Based on active ingredients related to benzalkonium chloride. Commonly used for general disinfection of hard surfaces; usually safe for most surfaces and usually used as a one-step disinfectant-cleaner. Quats have good biocidal activity against enveloped viruses and Gram (+) bacteria; fair activity against Gram (-) bacteria and fungi; poor or no activity against non-enveloped viruses, Mycobacteria and bacterial spores. Soap, anionic cleaners and hard water reduce effectiveness. Effectiveness speed: Medium. Cotton rags and cellulose based wipers bind active biocide agents. Can leave gummy residue.