Quats are by nature wetting agents that foam and cling to vertical, radial, and underside surfaces. They have excellent penetration properties, and are less affected by organic matter than chlorine. They leave a residual film that provides an extended residence time of biological activity. Quats are more stable and less corrosive than chlorine products, but more expensive. They may eventually corrode electronics, such as controls associated with sizing and grading equipment.
Quats are low in mammalian toxicity and non-irritating to the skin.
Guidelines for use of quats 1. The quaternary ammonium formulation must be approved for plant quarantine sanitatio 2. Building, equipment, and brush surfaces should be cleaned with water and detergent before sanitizing with quaternary ammonium. Quaternary ammonium can be applied to surfaces of equipment, buildings, and brushes in contact with fruit at a concentration of 200 ppm with a no rinse requirement. Quats are not approved for application to fruit 4.