What is Polyquaternium-2 and how does it fit the Polyquaternium series?
Polyquaternium-2 (CAS 68555-36-2, repeat unit C15H34Cl2N4O2, MW 373.4) is a cationic (positively charged) polymer in the INCI Polyquaternium family, with listed cosmetic functions of conditioning and film formation. The Polyquaternium series shares a cationic charge but each number is a distinct polymer backbone. RawSource supplies it in bulk to specification.
POLYQUATERNIUM-2- ▸ Hair conditioning: Cationic substantivity to hair and skin
- ▸ Antistatic: Controls static charge on hair fibers
- ▸ Film forming: Deposits a conditioning film in rinse-off systems
| Grade | CAS No. | Listed functions | Repeat-unit formula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyquaternium-2 you are here | 68555-36-2 | Conditioning, film formation | C15H34Cl2N4O2 |
| Polyquaternium-7 | 26590-05-6 | Conditioning, film formation, thickening | — |
| Polyquaternium-10 | 68610-92-4 | Conditioning, film formation, thickening | — |
| Polyquaternium-11 | 53633-54-8 | Conditioning, film formation | C18H34N2O7S |
| Polyquaternium-28 | 131954-48-8 | Conditioning, film formation | C16H30ClN3O2 |
How to choose: Polyquaternium is an INCI family of cationic (positively charged) polymers, not a single molecule — each number is a distinct backbone. Polyquaternium-7 is an acrylamide/DADMAC copolymer; the series is grouped for their shared cationic charge and film-forming/conditioning function profile. Members that also carry a thickening/rheology role (PQ-7, PQ-10) contribute viscosity in addition to substantivity.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Polyquaternium-2 (CAS 68555-36-2) is a cationic polymeric quaternary ammonium compound of the polyurea ionene type. It is used in personal-care formulations as an antistatic and hair-conditioning agent. It is a reviewed cosmetic ingredient.
Regulatory & registration requirements
- TSCA (US):
- REACH (EU): Not determined from public registry
- EC number: 614-612-6
TSCA Inventory flag XU: a substance exempt from reporting under the Chemical Data Reporting Rule (40 CFR 711) (EPA flag legend).
Source: EPA TSCA Inventory (July 2025 release) · ECHA CHEM — retrieved 2026-07-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Polyquaternium-2 made of?
Polyquaternium-2 (CAS 68555-36-2) is a cationic polymeric quaternary ammonium compound of the polyurea ionene type. Its cationic backbone gives it substantivity to hair and skin in formulations.
Is Polyquaternium a silicone?
No. Polyquaternium-2 is a quaternary-ammonium (ionene) polymer, not a silicone (organosilicon) polymer. Silicone conditioning agents are a separate chemistry; if you need a silicone, ask about our silicone-fluid grades.
What is Polyquaternium-2 used for?
It is used in personal-care formulations as an antistatic and hair-conditioning agent and as a film former that deposits a conditioning film in rinse-off systems. Its cationic substantivity drives the conditioning effect.
How is Polyquaternium-2 supplied in bulk?
It is typically supplied as an aqueous solution with active content varying by grade. Confirm the active percentage on the CoA, request the SDS, and send your volume and packaging for a bulk quote.
What is the CAS number for Polyquaternium-2?
Its CAS number is 68555-36-2. A batch CoA and SDS are available on request for identity confirmation and incoming-material qualification.
What is the REACH and TSCA regulatory status of Polyquaternium-2?
Polyquaternium-2 (CAS 68555-36-2) is listed as Active on the U.S. EPA TSCA Inventory; its REACH registration status is not determined from the public ECHA registry.