Triclocarban (TCC) is a well-known antimicrobial agent, chemically identified as N-(4-Chlorophenyl)-N′-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)urea. Historically, it gained widespread prominence for its bacteriostatic properties, particularly its effectiveness in inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, most notably gram-positive strains such as Staphylococcus aureus. Developed originally for the medical field, TCC’s ability to prevent bacterial proliferation made it a staple ingredient in numerous personal care products since the 1960s.

For decades, consumers regularly encountered Triclocarban in items like antibacterial bar soaps, lotions, deodorants, and even toothpastes. Its mechanism of action involves destabilizing bacterial cell walls, thus preventing bacterial replication and aiding in the treatment and prevention of skin and mucosal infections. This broad application reflected a global reliance on TCC for daily hygiene and public health benefits, with its usage reaching peak levels in the early 2000s.

However, over time, scientific research brought forth significant concerns regarding the long-term safety and environmental impact of Triclocarban. Studies revealed its potential to act as an endocrine disruptor, influencing steroid hormones like androgens and estrogens, which raised questions about reproductive health implications. Although acute toxicity was found to be low, repeated low-dose exposure became a subject of critical evaluation. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance led researchers to investigate whether the widespread use of antimicrobials like TCC could contribute to the development of stronger, drug-resistant bacterial strains, potentially diminishing the efficacy of vital medical treatments.

Beyond human health, Triclocarban’s environmental footprint also became a major concern. Being a chlorinated compound, TCC is characterized by its hydrophobicity and persistence in the environment. It does not fully degrade in municipal wastewater treatment plants, leading to its discharge into aquatic ecosystems and accumulation in sewage sludge. This persistence results in bioaccumulation in various organisms, including aquatic species like fish and algae, and even terrestrial organisms such as earthworms, with potential toxic effects on wildlife. These environmental and health concerns ultimately prompted regulatory action, leading to a significant phase-out of TCC from consumer antibacterial soaps and body washes in many regions, including a notable ban by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2016 for consumer products.

Despite these regulatory shifts in consumer markets, Triclocarban continues to hold relevance for specific industrial and specialized applications where its unique antibacterial properties are still required under controlled conditions. For instance, in certain research settings or for specific non-consumer industrial processes, the demand for high-purity Triclocarban persists. As a dedicated manufacturer and supplier of pharmaceutical and chemical products, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. maintains its commitment to providing high-quality Triclocarban for such specific needs, ensuring product integrity and purity above 98% w/w. We understand the stringent requirements for specialized applications and offer competitive price options for those looking to buy or purchase this compound. Our focus remains on delivering reliable chemical solutions to meet the evolving demands of research and industry worldwide, supporting sectors that require precise chemical components like TCC.