Understanding Benzalkonium Chloride: Properties, Uses, and Safety
Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC), also known by its chemical name alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, is a versatile quaternary ammonium compound with significant applications across various industries. Its dual nature as a potent biocide and an effective cationic surfactant makes it a valuable ingredient for manufacturers worldwide. At NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., we are a leading Benzalkonium Chloride supplier, providing high-quality BKC to meet diverse industrial needs.
What is Benzalkonium Chloride?
BKC is an organic salt that functions primarily as a cationic surfactant and a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. It is a mixture of alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chlorides, where the alkyl group varies in chain length. This composition contributes to its effectiveness against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. It is typically supplied as a colorless to pale yellow liquid in concentrations of 50% and 80%.
Key Properties and Applications:
- Biocidal Activity: BKC is highly effective at killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. This property makes it indispensable in water treatment, where it controls algae, bacteria, and slime in cooling towers and industrial water systems. It is also a key ingredient in disinfectants, sanitizers, and antiseptic products for both household and industrial use.
- Cationic Surfactant Properties: As a surfactant, BKC exhibits excellent wetting, emulsifying, and dispersing capabilities. This makes it useful in detergents, textile processing, and as an excipient in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations, where it can aid in the delivery of active ingredients.
- Phase Transfer Agent: In chemical synthesis, BKC can act as a phase transfer catalyst, facilitating reactions between immiscible phases, thereby improving reaction rates and yields.
- Diverse Industry Uses: From pharmaceuticals (as a preservative in eye drops and nasal sprays) and cosmetics (in sanitizers, wipes, and lotions) to agriculture and oilfield applications, BKC's utility is widespread.
Safety Considerations for BKC:
While BKC is a powerful chemical, its safe use is paramount. Concentrations below 0.1% are generally considered safe for topical applications in cosmetics and personal care, provided there are no wounds or sensitivities. However, higher concentrations can be irritating to skin and eyes. In occupational settings, especially when handling concentrated forms or during aerosolization, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilation are necessary to prevent respiratory irritation or other adverse effects. As a Benzalkonium Chloride manufacturer, we adhere to strict safety protocols and provide comprehensive safety data sheets (SDS) for our products.
Sourcing BKC from China:
When looking to buy Benzalkonium Chloride, choosing a reputable supplier in China like NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. ensures you receive a quality product at a competitive CAS 8001-54-5 price. We are committed to providing consistent quality and reliable supply for all your BKC needs, supporting your product development and manufacturing processes.
Perspectives & Insights
Molecule Vision 7
“1% are generally considered safe for topical applications in cosmetics and personal care, provided there are no wounds or sensitivities.”
Alpha Origin 24
“In occupational settings, especially when handling concentrated forms or during aerosolization, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilation are necessary to prevent respiratory irritation or other adverse effects.”
Future Analyst X
“As a Benzalkonium Chloride manufacturer, we adhere to strict safety protocols and provide comprehensive safety data sheets (SDS) for our products.”