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Polyquaternium-10

Polyquaternium-10 suppliers and sourcing guide

Polyquaternium-10 is a cationic cellulose polymer made by reacting hydroxyethylcellulose with a trimethylammonium-substituted epoxide, which adds positively charged quaternary ammonium groups along the cellulose chain. It is an off-white granular powder that dissolves in water to give clear solutions. Brands use it in shampoos, conditioners and body washes, where it is deposited on hair as a film and reduces static. Grades differ by molecular weight and by charge density.

See suppliersWhat to ask for on the COA
Also known as
PQ-10 · Quaternized hydroxyethylcellulose · Cationic hydroxyethylcellulose
Facts checked
November 2026

Forms and grades of Polyquaternium-10

Suppliers sell different products under the same name. Specify the one you need.

  • Viscosity grades

    Low, medium and high molecular weight grades, sold by the viscosity of a stated solution.

  • Charge density grades

    Grades with more or fewer cationic groups, reported as nitrogen content; charge density changes deposition and compatibility with anionic surfactants.

  • Surface-treated powder

    Powder treated to delay hydration so it disperses in water without lumps.

What to check on the COA

Compare each result with your own specification when the lot arrives.

Identity (IR)
Infrared spectrum matched against a reference.
Nitrogen content
Nitrogen by Kjeldahl or combustion, which measures cationic substitution.
Viscosity
Brookfield viscosity of a 1% or 2% solution at a stated temperature.
Loss on drying
Moisture content of the powder.
pH and ash
pH of a solution and residue on ignition.
Microbiology
Total aerobic count, yeast and mold, and absence of specified organisms such as E. coli, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa.

Storage, lots and expiry

Storage and shelf life

Keep polyquaternium-10 sealed in its bag or drum in a dry place, because the powder absorbs moisture and then lumps. It is stable as a dry powder; prepared solutions need preservation. Shelf life follows the supplier's retest date, with viscosity repeated on older stock.

Lots and expiry dates

Viscosity and nitrogen content vary within each grade, so record both for each lot. A change of grade or supplier can change clarity in clear shampoos, so check a test batch before switching.

Regulatory status

Facts from regulators and standards bodies, each linked to its source.

This is general information, not regulatory advice. Status differs by country and by how the ingredient is used, so check the rules for your product and market.

Polyquaternium-10 suppliers

Manufacturers and distributors whose own websites say they sell it.

We are checking Polyquaternium-10 suppliers now

Every listing is checked against the supplier’s own website before it goes live, so this list fills in over the coming weeks. The specs and COA checklist above are ready today.

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Frequently asked questions

What forms of Polyquaternium-10 can brands buy?

Common forms include viscosity grades, charge density grades and surface-treated powder. Ask each supplier for the specification sheet of the exact grade they quote.

What should the COA for Polyquaternium-10 include?

Expect identity (IR), nitrogen content, viscosity, loss on drying, pH and ash and microbiology, each with its method, specification and result for that lot.

How should Polyquaternium-10 be stored?

Keep polyquaternium-10 sealed in its bag or drum in a dry place, because the powder absorbs moisture and then lumps. It is stable as a dry powder; prepared solutions need preservation. Shelf life follows the supplier's retest date, with viscosity repeated on older stock.

What is the regulatory status of Polyquaternium-10?

Health Canada's Natural Health Products Ingredients Database lists polyquaternium-10 with the non-medicinal purposes antistatic agent and film former, for topical use only at up to 1.5%.

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