Standard Test Method for Disinfectant Quaternary Ammonium Salts by Potentiometric Titration

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is used to determine the percent actives in each type of the disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts, and also in the disinfectant products. Quaternary ammonium compounds being the active ingredients in disinfectant-type products require accurate determination to assess the cost and antimicrobial performance of such products.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a potentiometric titration procedure for determining active matter in disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts. This test method is intended for the analysis of quaternary ammonium salts used as disinfectants, and only applies to the following commonly used quaternary ammonium salts: n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (see Fig. 1), cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, and a blend of n-octyldecyl dimethylammonium chloride, di-n-octyl dimethylammonium chloride, and di-n-decyldimethyl ammonium chloride (see Fig. 2). Also, this test method can be applied to the analysis of disinfectant type products where the formula ingredients are known and the quaternary ammonium salt is one of the above. Interferences such as amines oxides and betaines present in disinfectant formulations were not tested.  X−  =  chloride, and    R  =  aliphatic, normal C8 − C22.    
1.2 This disinfectant quaternary ammonium salt conforms to the structures in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary information, see Section 8.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-Dec-2016

Relations

Effective Date
01-Jan-2017
Effective Date
01-Jul-2016
Effective Date
01-Jul-2016
Effective Date
01-Oct-2009
Effective Date
01-Oct-2009
Effective Date
15-Oct-2008
Effective Date
15-Jul-2008
Effective Date
01-Oct-2007
Effective Date
01-Mar-2006
Effective Date
01-May-2005
Effective Date
10-Jun-2000
Effective Date
10-Feb-1999
Effective Date
10-Feb-1999
Effective Date
10-Mar-1997
Effective Date
01-Jan-1996

Overview

ASTM D5806-95(2017) is a globally recognized standard developed by ASTM International for the determination of active matter in disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts using potentiometric titration. Quaternary ammonium compounds are widely used as the active ingredients in disinfectant products, making accurate measurement of their concentrations essential for evaluating antimicrobial effectiveness and product cost. This standard provides a precise and reproducible method for analyzing specific quaternary ammonium salts and disinfectant formulations when the active ingredients are known.

Key Topics

  • Potentiometric Titration: The test method defines the use of potentiometric titration to determine the percentage of active matter in quaternary ammonium disinfectants.
  • Applicable Compounds: It specifically applies to:
    • n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride
    • cetyltrimethylammonium chloride
    • Blends of n-octyldecyldimethylammonium chloride, di-n-octyldimethylammonium chloride, and di-n-decyldimethylammonium chloride
  • Disinfectant Product Testing: Suitable for both raw quaternary ammonium salts and formulated products where the composition is known.
  • Exclusions: The method is not validated for samples containing amine oxides or betaines as these potential interferences were not evaluated.
  • SI Units: All measurements are referenced in SI units, ensuring consistency with international best practices.
  • Safety Considerations: The standard includes important guidance on laboratory safety and requires users to follow appropriate safety and regulatory protocols.

Applications

ASTM D5806-95(2017) is essential for:

  • Quality Control in Manufacturing: Producers of disinfectants use this standard to verify the concentration of active quaternary ammonium compounds, ensuring product efficacy and regulatory compliance.
  • Product Development: Laboratories formulating new disinfectant products rely on this method for accurate quantification of actives, enabling optimization of formulations for antimicrobial performance.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Regulatory bodies and third-party laboratories utilize this method to assess whether disinfectant products meet required standards for active ingredient percentages.
  • Cost Assessment: Accurate determination of quaternary ammonium actives helps manufacturers control raw material usage and optimize production costs.
  • Performance Evaluation: By measuring active levels, stakeholders can correlate antimicrobial efficacy with product content.

Related Standards

Several other ASTM standards are relevant to the analysis and quality assurance of surfactants and disinfectants:

  • ASTM D1193: Specification for Reagent Water - Ensures the purity of water used in analytical procedures.
  • ASTM D1681: Test Method for Synthetic Anionic Active Ingredient in Detergents by Cationic Titration Procedure.
  • ASTM D3049: Test Method for Synthetic Anionic Ingredient by Cationic Titration.
  • ASTM D459: Terminology Relating to Soaps and Other Detergents.
  • ASTM E180: Practice for Determining the Precision of ASTM Methods for Analysis and Testing of Industrial and Specialty Chemicals.

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM D5806-95(2017) supports:

  • Reliable, Accurate Results: The method provides repeatable and reproducible outcomes for quaternary ammonium compound determination.
  • Consistency: Enables standardized testing across laboratories and jurisdictions, supporting global trade and regulatory acceptance.
  • Enhanced Product Safety: Accurate titration ensures products deliver claimed antimicrobial performance, protecting public health.

For stakeholders in the disinfectant manufacturing and regulatory sectors, ASTM D5806-95(2017) offers an authoritative, comprehensive framework for ensuring product quality and compliance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D5806-95(2017) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Disinfectant Quaternary Ammonium Salts by Potentiometric Titration". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method is used to determine the percent actives in each type of the disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts, and also in the disinfectant products. Quaternary ammonium compounds being the active ingredients in disinfectant-type products require accurate determination to assess the cost and antimicrobial performance of such products. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers a potentiometric titration procedure for determining active matter in disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts. This test method is intended for the analysis of quaternary ammonium salts used as disinfectants, and only applies to the following commonly used quaternary ammonium salts: n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (see Fig. 1), cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, and a blend of n-octyldecyl dimethylammonium chloride, di-n-octyl dimethylammonium chloride, and di-n-decyldimethyl ammonium chloride (see Fig. 2). Also, this test method can be applied to the analysis of disinfectant type products where the formula ingredients are known and the quaternary ammonium salt is one of the above. Interferences such as amines oxides and betaines present in disinfectant formulations were not tested. X− = chloride, and R = aliphatic, normal C8 − C22. 1.2 This disinfectant quaternary ammonium salt conforms to the structures in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary information, see Section 8.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This test method is used to determine the percent actives in each type of the disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts, and also in the disinfectant products. Quaternary ammonium compounds being the active ingredients in disinfectant-type products require accurate determination to assess the cost and antimicrobial performance of such products. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers a potentiometric titration procedure for determining active matter in disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts. This test method is intended for the analysis of quaternary ammonium salts used as disinfectants, and only applies to the following commonly used quaternary ammonium salts: n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (see Fig. 1), cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, and a blend of n-octyldecyl dimethylammonium chloride, di-n-octyl dimethylammonium chloride, and di-n-decyldimethyl ammonium chloride (see Fig. 2). Also, this test method can be applied to the analysis of disinfectant type products where the formula ingredients are known and the quaternary ammonium salt is one of the above. Interferences such as amines oxides and betaines present in disinfectant formulations were not tested. X− = chloride, and R = aliphatic, normal C8 − C22. 1.2 This disinfectant quaternary ammonium salt conforms to the structures in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary information, see Section 8.

ASTM D5806-95(2017) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 71.100.35 - Chemicals for industrial and domestic disinfection purposes. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D5806-95(2017) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D5806-95(2009), ASTM D459-16, ASTM D3049-89(2016), ASTM D459-09, ASTM D3049-89(2009), ASTM D459-08a, ASTM D459-08, ASTM D459-00(2007), ASTM D1193-06, ASTM D1681-05, ASTM D459-00, ASTM D1193-99, ASTM D1193-99e1, ASTM D1681-92(1997), ASTM D3049-89(1996)e1. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D5806-95(2017) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

Standards Content (Sample)


This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D5806 − 95 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Disinfectant Quaternary Ammonium Salts by Potentiometric
Titration
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5806; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers a potentiometric titration pro-
D459Terminology Relating to Soaps and Other Detergents
cedure for determining active matter in disinfectant quaternary
D1193Specification for Reagent Water
ammonium salts. This test method is intended for the analysis
D1681Test Method for SyntheticAnionicActive Ingredient
of quaternary ammonium salts used as disinfectants, and only
in Detergents by Cationic Titration Procedure
appliestothefollowingcommonlyusedquaternaryammonium
D3049Test Method for Synthetic Anionic Ingredient by
salts: n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (see Fig. 1),
Cationic Titration
cetyltrimethylammoniumchloride,andablendof n-octyldecyl
E180Practice for Determining the Precision of ASTM
dimethylammonium chloride, di-n-octyl dimethylammonium
Methods for Analysis and Testing of Industrial and Spe-
chloride,anddi-n-decyldimethylammoniumchloride(seeFig. 3
cialty Chemicals (Withdrawn 2009)
2). Also, this test method can be applied to the analysis of
disinfectant type products where the formula ingredients are
3. Terminology
known and the quaternary ammonium salt is one of the above.
3.1 Definitions—See Terminology D459.
Interferences such as amines oxides and betaines present in
disinfectant formulations were not tested.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.2 This disinfectant quaternary ammonium salt conforms 4.1 Disinfectant type quaternary ammonium compounds
to the structures in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. present,astheactivematerialsindisinfectanttypeproductsare
titrated potentiometrically in an aqueous medium with a
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
standard solution of sodium lauryl sulphate using a nitrate
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
ion-selective electrode or a surfactant electrode (see also Test
standard.
Method D1681). In this potentiometric titration, the reaction
involves the formation of a complex between the disinfectant
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
quaternary ammonium compound and the anionic surfactant
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
which then precipitates. At the end point, the nitrate ion
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
electrode or surfactant electrode appears to respond to an
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
excess of titrant with a potential change large enough to give a
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific
well defined inflection in the titration curve.
precautionary information, see Section 8.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Thistestmethodisusedtodeterminethepercentactives
in each type of the disinfectant quaternary ammonium salts,
1 2
This test method is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee D12 on Soaps For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
and Other Detergents and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D12.12 on contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
AnalysisandSpecificationsofSoaps,Synthetics,DetergentsandtheirComponents. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2017. Published February 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
approvedin1995.Lastpreviouseditionapprovedin2009asD5806-95(2009).DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/D5806-95R17. www.astm.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5806 − 95 (2017)
where:

X = chloride, and
R = aliphatic, normal C −C .
8 22
FIG. 1n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride
NOTE 2—Other electrodes (for example, calomel electrodes) are suit-
able as the reference electrode provided they give a stable reference
potential during the titration. Reference electrodes having a ceramic or an
asbestos junction tend to clog with use. Therefore, a ground-glass sleeve
electrode is suggested.
7. Reagents
where: 13
7.1 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, primary standard (see Note 3).

X = chloride, and
7.2 Standardize with Hyamine 1622, dried previously at
R = aliphatic, normal C −C .
8 22
105°C for 1 h.
FIG. 2 Dialkyldimethyl quaternaries
NOTE 3—Sodium lauryl sulfate must be analyzed for purity according
to the Reagent section of Test Method D3049 before using as a primary
standard.
and also in the disinfectant products. Quaternary ammonium
7.3 Water, Type III, reagent water conforming to Specifica-
compounds being the active ingredients in disinfectant-type
tion D1193.
products require accurate determination to assess the cost and
7.4 Isopropanol, reagent grade. (Warning—Highly flam-
antimicrobial performance of such products.
mable.)
6. Apparatus
7.5 Sodium Borate Decahydrate, (Na B O 10H O), re-
2 4 7 2
6.1 Autotitration System, with 10-mL buret capacity, or
agent grade.
5 6
20-mL buret capacity, magnetic stirrer, evaluating ruler,
7 7.6 Boric Acid, (H BO ), reagent grade. (Warning—
3 3
titroprocessor with 10-mL buret capacity or equivalent auto-
Causes irritation.)
titration system.
8 9 7.7 Sodium Hydroxide, (NaOH), reagent grade.
6.2 Nitrate Specific Ion Electrode, or surfactant electrode,
10 (Warning—Causes severe burns on contact with skin.)
or equivalent. Silver/silver chloride reference electrode.
7.8 Sodium Hydroxide, 2N Solution—Dissolve 40 g of
6.3 Metrohm Coaxial Adaptor, required for indicator elec-
11 sodiumhydroxideinapproximately300mLofdeionizedwater
trode. Banana plug adaptor, required for reference electrode.
with stirring. Transfer to a 500-mL volumetric flask, dilute to
NOTE 1—To ensure electrical continuity (after assembly), shake down
volume with deionized water, and mix well.
electrode in the manner of a clinical thermometer.Also, the conditioning
of the electrode is essential for obtaining a good break in the titration 7.9 Borate Buffer Solution—Dissolve 1.5 g Na B O ·10
2 4 7
curve. Conditioning new electrodes in 0.004 M sodium lauryl sulfate,
H O and 1.0 g H BO in approximately 200 mL deionized
2 3 3
aqueous solution for 60 min (or more) prior to use is recommended.Also
water, with stirring; adjust pH to 9.5 with 2N HaOH, transfer
applies to the nitrate or surfactant electrode.
to a 1000-mL volumetric flask, mix and dilute to volume with
deionized water.
Metrohm-Brinkmann E-536, or equivalent, has been found satisfactory.Avail-
7.10 Octoxynol-9 Nonionic Surfactant.
able from Brinkmann Instruments Inc., Cantiague Rd., Westbury, NY 11590.
Potentiograph/E-535 and Dosimat/E-459, or equivalent, have been found
7.11 Triton Solution, 1%—Pipet 1 mL of the octoxynol-9
satisfactory. Available from Brinkmann Instruments Inc.
nonionic surfactant and transfer to a 100-mL volumetric flask
Evaluating Ruler EA-893, or equivalent, has been found satisfactory.Available
diluted to volume with deionized water.
from Brinkmann Instruments Inc.
Metrohm-BrinkmannTitrop
...

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