Used as a cationic surfactant in various industrial and household cleaning products, including as a disinfectant due to its ability to disrupt bacterial and viral cell membranes. Effective in fabric softeners and hair conditioners for reducing static and improving texture. Applied in the oil and gas industry as a corrosion inhibitor and to aid in phase separation. Utilized in water treatment processes. Commonly employed in biochemical research for cell lysis and protein extraction. Acts as a phase transfer catalyst in organic synthesis reactions. Also used in the preparation of nanoparticles, and in paper manufacturing to enhance paper quality and facilitate dispersion of other chemicals.