For procurement managers, R&D scientists, and product formulators in the chemical industry, understanding the technical intricacies of raw materials is crucial for successful product development and manufacturing. Quaternium 18-Hectorite (CAS 12001-31-9) is a sophisticated organoclay with a unique chemical profile that underpins its efficacy as a rheology modifier and emulsifier. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., a dedicated manufacturer and supplier, provides this high-purity material and offers insights into its technical attributes.

Chemical Identity and Structure

Quaternium 18-Hectorite is an organically modified clay mineral. It is synthesized through the cation exchange reaction between hectorite, a naturally occurring smectite clay, and Quaternium-18, a quaternary ammonium compound derived from hydrogenated tallow fatty acids. This process results in the replacement of inorganic cations within the clay's layered structure with bulky organic cations. This modification fundamentally alters the clay's surface properties, rendering it organophilic and enhancing its compatibility with organic liquids and polymers.

• CAS Number: 12001-31-9
• Molecular Formula: HLiMgNaO₁₁Si₄⁻ (representing the complex inorganic framework)
• Appearance: Typically supplied as a fine white powder.
• Assay: High purity, often 99%min, ensuring consistent performance.
• Molecular Weight: Approximately 343.58 g/mol.

Key Physical and Chemical Properties

The unique structure of Quaternium 18-Hectorite imbues it with several advantageous properties:

• Rheological Performance: Its primary function is as a rheology modifier, providing thickening and suspending capabilities in various matrices. It forms a reversible gel structure, imparting thixotropic behavior to formulations.
• Emulsification: It acts as an effective emulsifier, particularly in oil-in-water systems, by stabilizing the interface between immiscible phases.
• Stability: Quaternium 18-Hectorite exhibits good thermal stability and is effective over a broad pH range (typically 3-11), making it suitable for a wide array of formulation conditions.
• Dispersion: While it is a powder, proper activation (often through shear and appropriate solvents) is key to achieving optimal dispersion and gel formation.

Synthesis and Manufacturing Process

The production of Quaternium 18-Hectorite involves a carefully controlled cation exchange process:

1. Hectorite Preparation: Natural hectorite clay is processed and dispersed in an aqueous medium to create a slurry.
2. Quaternium-18 Addition: An aqueous solution of Quaternium-18 is introduced to the hectorite slurry.
3. Ion Exchange: The positively charged quaternary ammonium ions from Quaternium-18 replace the native inorganic cations (like sodium) within the interlayer spaces of the hectorite. This step is crucial for rendering the clay organophilic.
4. Washing and Drying: The modified clay is then washed to remove residual salts and dried to obtain the final powdered product.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. employs advanced manufacturing techniques and stringent quality control to ensure the high purity and consistent performance of our Quaternium 18-Hectorite. By purchasing directly from us, you benefit from manufacturer-level insights and reliability.

Applications Benefiting from Technical Properties

The technical profile of Quaternium 18-Hectorite makes it indispensable in:

• Cosmetics: Creams, lotions, lipsticks, mascaras (as thickeners, emulsifiers, suspending agents).
• Paints and Coatings: Automotive paints, industrial coatings (as anti-settling agents, rheology modifiers).
• Personal Care: Conditioners, hair treatments (for texture and stability).
• Industrial Products: Polishing agents, cleaning agents, drilling fluids.

Secure Your Supply of High-Quality Quaternium 18-Hectorite

For procurement managers and R&D professionals seeking a reliable supplier of technically advanced Quaternium 18-Hectorite (CAS 12001-31-9), NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is your premier choice. We offer direct manufacturer pricing, bulk purchase advantages, and a commitment to product excellence. Contact us today to obtain a quote and discuss how our high-purity Quaternium 18-Hectorite can optimize your formulations.