Benzethonium Chloride CAS 121-54-0

Benzethonium Chloride – Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Quaternary Ammonium Compound

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 121-54-0

• Molecular Formula: C₂₇H₄₂ClNO₂

• Molecular Weight: 448.08 g/mol

• Appearance: White crystalline powder

• Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohol, and acetone; slightly soluble in ether

Overview
Benzethonium chloride is a synthetic quaternary ammonium compound with a benzyl radical. It exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against a wide range of microorganisms, including Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. Its cationic surfactant properties allow it to disrupt microbial cell membranes, leading to rapid cell lysis and death. It is widely used as a preservative and antiseptic in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care products.

Applications

• Cosmetics and personal care: Preservative in creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and wipes.

• Pharmaceuticals: Antiseptic in topical preparations, wound cleansers, and disinfectant solutions.

• Healthcare: Surface disinfectants and sanitizers in hospitals and clinics.

• Industrial: Biocide in water treatment, paper manufacturing, and textile processing.

• Household: Disinfectant sprays and cleaning products.

Mechanism of Action
Benzethonium chloride acts by adsorbing to negatively charged microbial cell surfaces, disrupting membrane integrity, and causing leakage of intracellular components. It also denatures proteins and enzymes, contributing to its rapid bactericidal and fungicidal effects.

Key Benefits

• Broad‑spectrum antimicrobial activity.

• Effective at low concentrations (0.01–0.1%).

• Non‑irritating at recommended use levels.

• Stable and compatible with many formulation ingredients.

• Readily soluble in water and common solvents.

Precautions and Safety

• May cause skin and eye irritation at higher concentrations.

• Incompatible with anionic surfactants (forms precipitates).

• Avoid use on mucous membranes in high concentrations.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and strong oxidizers.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.

• Use with adequate ventilation; avoid inhalation of dust.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg, and 50 kg drums or bags. Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), water content, and antimicrobial efficacy to ensure consistent performance.