Quats and Polyquat Algaecides

Quats:- most often found in active concentrations of 5-10%. Such "quaternary ammonium salts" are surfactants (like detergents) and if added in excess, will cause foaming on the pool surface. Surfactants lower the surface tension of the water and "wet" algae cell walls. This "wetting" splits open the cell wall and kills the algae. Quats are most often used as a preventative, requiring lower concentrations and amounts than Polyquat to achieve the same level of prevention.

Polyquat:- sold in concentrations of 30 to 60%. and are more costly than Quats. Polyquat works well at destroying visible algae, being effective not only on green algae, but also with the chlorine resistant mustard and black algae, especially if pool has been brushed before application, Since it is Non-foaming, it is preferable for use where fountains, water falls, or other water features are a part of the swimming pool circulation system. Polyquat is also a clarifier and helps flocculate and remove organic matter.


(This information was gathered from several sources and combined to a more concise form. and posted for general information)