New sorbic-type quaternary ammonium single-chain and gemini polymerizable surfactants: Synthesis, interfacial properties and anti-electrostatic activity

In the present work new sorbic acid amphiphilic derivatives are characterized. One single-chain quaternary ammonium bromide bearing sorbic group, sorbyloylundecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, and three analogical double-chain, so-called gemini, surfactants with propylene, butylene and hexylene spacers were obtained. Chemical data, interfacial activity (CMC values: 2.3–12.3 mM) and micellar properties were investigated for both single-chain and gemini compounds. ic surfactants include a positively charged nitrogen atom, which is able to conduct charges, and thus quaternary salts are known for their anti-electrostatic properties. It is very important, especially in a low hygroscopic atmosphere with a high dust level, to easily conduct any charge from the surface of protective garments, i.e. glasses, clothing and other objects. Synthesized compounds revealed very good or excellent capacities to neutralize charges appearing on polyethylene and polypropylene surfaces. The values of surface resistance Rs (0.001–9 × 1011 Ω), charge half-decay times τ1/2 (0.20–8.70 s) and induced potentials Uind (46–850 V) of these polymers impregnated with surfmers are presented. However, these were only the results appearing before the first wash. Compounds presented in the work were designed to be able to polymerize. The presence of a polymerizable sorbic group at the hydrophobic terminal allowed us to prepare a layer on the surface of polymers, by impregnating foil and fabric with surfmer solutions and direct UV irradiation polymerization processes. Unpolymerized layers can be washed off the polymeric surfaces, but after irradiation conductive properties are still acceptable even after washing, especially on polypropylene.