Polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride (PDMDAAC) Classification

Polydimethyldiallylammonium chloride (PDMDAAC) is classified as a cationic polymer. Specifically, it belongs to the class of quaternary ammonium compounds. Quaternary ammonium compounds are organic salts that contain a positively charged nitrogen atom connected to four organic groups, typically alkyl or aryl groups. In PDMDAAC, the quaternary ammonium group is attached to dimethyldiallylammonium chloride monomers, forming a polymer chain.

PDMDAAC's classification as a cationic polymer is based on its molecular structure, which features positively charged ammonium groups along the polymer backbone. This cationic nature allows PDMDAAC to interact strongly with negatively charged particles in water, such as suspended solids, organic matter, and certain microorganisms. This property is utilized in various applications, including water treatment, papermaking, textile processing, and cosmetics.