Cationic polyelectrolytes containing quaternary nitrogen atoms within the main chain were prepared via condensation polymerization of epichlorhydrin (ECH) with benzyl amine (BA). Polyelectrolytes having different molecular weights were obtained by varying the ECH/BA mole ratio. Cationic polymers were characterized by 1H-NMR and gel permeation chromatography. The antimicrobial activity of the polymers was tested against bacteria, yeast, and fungi. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.