Abstract
Carboxylic amphoteric surfactants containing ether tertiary amino and carboxylic groups were prepared. Specifically, 2‐(2‐dimethyl‐aminoethoxy)octadecanoic, hexadecanoic and dodecanoic acid hydrochloride were synthesized. Surface and interfacial tension, emulsifying action, corrosion inhibition effect and after‐treatment of direct dyed cotton fabrics were determined for these surfactants. Antibacterial activities were also examined.