Synthesis and evaluation of a novel gemini quaternary ammonium as an anti-swelling chemical

A novel gemini quaternary ammonium was successfully synthesized with triethylamine (1a, Et₃N) and epichlorohydrin (2a) as raw materials. The optimal reaction conditions was:n_1b:n_2a:n_1a=1.2:1:1, reaction temperature 70℃, reaction time 7h, and the yield can reach 85.0%. In view of the anti-swelling of the gemini quaternary ammonium, results of laboratory evaluation show that when the mass fraction of 3a in clay stabilizer solution was 1.0%, the anti-swelling rate was up to 86.5%.