Benzyl Konium Chloride (BAC)
Benzyl Konium Chloride (BAC) 50% is a quaternary ammonium compound with potent antimicrobial and disinfectant properties. It is a cationic surfactant widely used for its bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal effects. This clear to pale yellow liquid concentrate is highly soluble in water and is commonly used in healthcare, sanitation, and industrial hygiene applications. BAC 50% solutions serve as active ingredients in disinfectants, sanitizers, and antiseptics due to their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
Primary UsesÂ
Healthcare & Medical
- Used as an active ingredient in hospital-grade disinfectants, antiseptics, and wound care products.
- Incorporated in hand sanitizers and surface disinfectants to control pathogenic microbes.
- Employed in ophthalmic and nasal formulations as a preservative and antimicrobial agent.
Industrial & Institutional Cleaning
- Used in disinfectants and sanitizers for food processing plants, kitchens, and public facilities.
- Incorporated in cleaning agents for hospitals, laboratories, and institutional environments.
- Applied in water treatment to control microbial growth.
Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Used as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and deodorants.
- Helps extend shelf life of cosmetic products by preventing microbial contamination.
Agriculture & Animal Care
- Used as a disinfectant in veterinary clinics and animal husbandry.
- Applied to sanitize equipment and facilities to reduce infection risks.
Secondary Uses
- Employed in cooling tower water treatment to control biofilms and microbial contamination.
- Used in textile and paper industries as an antimicrobial additive.
- Utilized in household cleaning products for antibacterial properties.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Benzyl-dimethyl-hexadecylammonium chloride
- Common/Trade Names: Benzalkonium Chloride, BAC, Benzyl Konium Chloride
- CAS Number: 8001-54-5 (for BAC mixtures)
- HS Code: 2923.29.90
- Molecular Formula: C₂₇H₄₂ClN (varies with chain length)
- Synonyms: Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, Quaternary ammonium compound
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Clear to pale yellow liquid (50% aqueous solution)
- Color & Odor: Slightly yellow, mild ammoniacal odor
- pH: Typically 6–8 (at 1% solution)
- Density: ~1.0–1.05 g/cm³
- Solubility: Miscible with water, soluble in alcohols
- Vapor Pressure: Negligible
- Flash Point: > 100°C (non-flammable aqueous solution)
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Skin irritant, Category 2; Eye irritant, Category 2A
- NFPA Ratings: Health 2, Flammability 0, Reactivity 0
- Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA PEL; avoid skin and eye contact
- Toxicity: Moderate acute toxicity; can cause irritation to skin and eyes
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers and acids
- Container Type: Polyethylene or stainless steel containers recommended
- Shelf Life: 2 years when stored properly
- Special Handling: Use PPE including gloves, goggles; avoid inhalation of mist or vapor
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- EPA: Registered as an antimicrobial pesticide in many countries
- FDA: Approved for use in certain pharmaceutical and cosmetic products
- Transportation: Non-flammable liquid; handle as irritant material
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local environmental regulations
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release into waterways
- Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions
- Carcinogenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhalation of mists or vapors.
- Spill Response: Contain spills with inert absorbents; prevent environmental contamination.
- Storage: Keep containers tightly closed; avoid exposure to incompatible substances.
- Hygiene: Wash thoroughly after handling; avoid ingestion and prolonged skin contact.
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur.
- Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists.
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; consult a physician.
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention.
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable aqueous solution; may decompose on heating releasing toxic fumes.
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚.
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and breathing apparatus.
Preventive Actions: Avoid exposure to strong oxidizers and heat sources.