Progress on synthesis of quaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactants

Structure,properties and applications of the quaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactants were briefed. Synthesis methods for the linear chain type,hydroxyl type,ester radical type,complex group type,ether radical type and the fluorinated type of the quaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactants were emphatically described with their advantages and disadvantages briefly summarized. Performance and properties of various types of quaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactant such as critical micelle concentration( cmc) and surface tension at the cmc( γcmc) as well as their applications in sterilization and metal corrosion prevention et al. were presented. Trends of future development of the quaternary ammonium salt Gemini surfactants were prospected.