Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound (QUAC), a cationic surfactant (positively charged surface-active agent) that impacts cell walls and membranes after relatively long contact times. If anionic detergents or soaps are utilized for cleaning purposes, they need to be washed off before the application of a QUAC, otherwise, the disinfectant's effectiveness can be reduced. These compounds are among the most-used disinfectants in the food industry, are good penetrants and have value for porous surfaces, and they can be applied through foaming.
