Silane-Based QAC Covalent Bonding Treatment
topic
3-(Trimethoxysilylpropyl)dimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride (Si-QAC, AEM 5700 Dow Corning) reacts with surface hydroxyl groups on cotton, wool, and glass fiber in hydrolysis-condensation reaction, forming Si–O–fiber covalent bonds at 120–150°C cure. Treatment concentration of 0.5–2.0% owf with 0.1% acetic acid catalyst achieves add-on of 0.2–0.8 g/m². Cationic alkyl chain (C18) acts as a molecular spike, physically disrupting bacterial membranes on contact without chemical release. Efficacy reaches >5 log reduction against MRSA and VRE (AATCC TM100). Wash durability exceeds 100 cycles at 60°C, the highest among non-silver systems. Registered with EPA (Reg. No. 64881-6) and compliant with Oeko-Tex Standard 100.
Role
Most durable non-leaching antimicrobial finish for hospital textile applications requiring repeated industrial laundering at high temperatures, providing permanent contact-kill activity against healthcare-associated pathogens including MRSA.