Polyquats
Polyquats are non-oxidizing algaecides, used mainly to eliminate existing algae growth.
Chemistry
Polyquats are quaternary ammonium compounds with the addition of poly {oxyethylene(dimethyliminio)-ethylene-(dimethyliminio)-ethylene-dichloride}. They are distinguished from simple quats for the reason just mentioned, and because they contain quaternary ammonium salts at concentrations between 30-60%, as opposed to simple quats' concentrations of 5-10%.
While more costly than simple quats, polyquats are effective not only on green algae, but on chlorine-resistant mustard algae, and even notoriously tough black algae. Unlike simple quats, which are used mainly for preventative purposes, polyquats are effective at destroying an existing algae infestation.
Polyquats are also much less likely to cause foaming problems than simple quats are.
Featured Articles
- Maintaining Vinyl — Pool & Spa News — 1.15.2010
- Algae Altogether — Pool & Spa News — 3.13.2009
