Description
PQ-7, also known as Polyquaternium-7, is a water-soluble cationic polymer made by copolymerizing acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC).
It is widely used in personal care and cosmetic products as a conditioning, antistatic, and film-forming agent.
It improves hair softness, smoothness, wet & dry combability, and reduces static and frizz, especially in shampoos and body washes.
Chemical properties
| Property | Details |
| Product Name | Polyquaternium-7 (PQ-7) |
| INCI Name | Polyquaternium-7 |
| Chemical Type | Cationic copolymer |
| Composition | Copolymer of acrylamide and diallyldimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC) |
| Appearance | Clear to pale yellow viscous liquid |
| Odor | Mild / characteristic |
| Ionic Nature | Cationic |
| Charge Density | Low to medium |
| Active Content | Typically 8–10% (varies by grade) |
| pH Range | 3.0 – 7.0 |
| Solubility | Completely soluble in water |
| Solubility in Oils | Insoluble |
| Density (25 °C) | ~1.00 – 1.05 g/cm³ |
| Viscosity | Moderate to high (grade dependent) |
| Stability | Stable over wide pH range; compatible with anionic & non-ionic surfactants |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong oxidizing agents |
| Function | Conditioning agent, film former, antistatic agent |
Grades of PQ-7
Cosmetic / Personal Care Grade (Most Common),Safe for skin & hair applications
Active content: 8–10%
Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid
Viscosity: Medium
Purity: High, cosmetic-compliant
Uses: Shampoos, Conditioners, Body wash, Liquid soaps, Facial cleansers
Industrial Grade-Not recommended for cosmetics
- Active content: 10–15% (may vary)
- Viscosity: Higher than cosmetic grade
- Purity: Lower cosmetic compliance
- Uses: Water treatment , Textile processing , Antistatic coatings
Low Viscosity Grade
- Active content: ~8%
- Viscosity: Low
- Best for: Clear shampoos , Spray products , Low-thickness formulations
High Viscosity Grade
- Active content: 10%
- Viscosity: High
- Best for: Conditioning shampoos , Creamy body washes ,2-in-1 shampoo formulations
Why PQ-7 is Popular
- Compatible with anionic surfactants
- Provides conditioning without buildup
- Easy to formulate
- Improves foam feel and texture
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