Surface-active compounds

Surface-active compounds are surfactants (detergents) that possess a dirt-releasing molecule structure. They have both lipophilic (fat-loving) and hydrophilic (water-loving) parts. By accumulating on surfaces or at interfaces between aqueous and non-aqueous media, surface-active compounds reduce the interfacial tension.

Cationic surfactants including quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) and Alkylamines belong to the surface-active substances playing a role in disinfection.