Chrissy, The active ingredient in Static Guard [TM Alberto-Culver] is listed on the label as Dimethyl Ditallow Ammonium Chloride. Tallow is the rendered fat of cattle [mainly beef] used in soapmaking, candles and lubricants. It is a mixture, not a pure substance and is unsaturated [contains double bonds]. The tallow is a hydrocarbon chain of between 14 and roughly 20 carbon atoms, either branched or linear. We can represent the active ingredient as: Me [(CnHx)2- N -]+ Cl- Me 14<= n <=20, x as needed, Me=methyl The primary function of this quaternary ammonium salt is [static] electricity conduction and dissipation. An important side benefit is the lubricity it confers to the fabric, reducing triboelectric buildup. Hope this helps Ken