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Quaternary ammonium cations, also known as quats, are positively charged polyatomic ions of the structure NR<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> with R being alkyl groups. Unlike the ammonium ion NH<sub>4</sub><sup>+</sup> itself and primary, secondary, or tertiary ammonium cations, the quaternary ammonium cations are permanently charged, independent of the pH of their solution. Quaternary ammonium cations are synthesized by complete alkylation of ammonia or other amines. For possible synthesis route, see amines.