Chloroxylenol BP (PCMX)

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Chloroxylenol (PCMX) is a pale yellow to colorless crystalline solid with a mild phenolic odor. It is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent widely used for its bactericidal, fungicidal, and antiviral properties. Chemically known as 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, Chloroxylenol acts by disrupting microbial cell membranes and inhibiting enzyme systems, making it effective against many gram-positive and some gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Its relatively low toxicity and skin irritation profile compared to other phenols have made it a preferred active ingredient in antiseptics, disinfectants, and preservative formulations across pharmaceutical, personal care, household, and industrial applications.

Description

Chloroxylenol BP (PCMX) Uses

Primary Uses 

Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare

  • Active ingredient in antiseptic solutions, surgical scrubs, medicated soaps, and wound cleansers for preventing infections.

  • Used in topical creams, ointments, and lotions for minor skin infections, cuts, abrasions, and fungal conditions.

  • Incorporated in mouthwashes and throat lozenges for antimicrobial and antiseptic benefits.

  • Utilized in hospital disinfectants and instrument sanitizers to reduce microbial contamination.

Household & Institutional Disinfectants

  • Key ingredient in surface disinfectants, floor cleaners, and sanitizing sprays for hospitals, clinics, and public spaces.

  • Used in hand washes and sanitizers to control spread of pathogens.

  • Incorporated in disinfectant wipes and cleaning products to maintain hygiene.

Personal Care Products

  • Included in deodorants and antiseptic skin cleansers to prevent bacterial growth and odor formation.

  • Used in formulations requiring broad antimicrobial activity and skin compatibility.

 

Secondary Uses 

Veterinary Medicine

  • Used as an antiseptic and disinfectant in veterinary wound care and skin treatment products.

Industrial Applications

  • Added as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in paints, coatings, and cooling water systems to prevent microbial spoilage.

  • Used in wood preservatives to inhibit fungal decay and mold growth.

Agriculture

  • Employed in certain biocidal formulations to control microbial contamination.

Cosmetics

Used as a preservative and antimicrobial additive in shampoos, lotions, and other cosmetic products to extend shelf life and prevent contamination.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
  1. Basic Identification Attributes
  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol

  • Common/Trade Name: Chloroxylenol, PCMX (Para-Chloro-meta-xylenol)

  • CAS Number: 88-04-0

  • HS Code: 2907.19.00

  • Molecular Formula: C8H9ClO

  • Synonyms:

    • PCMX

    • Para-chloro-meta-xylenol

    • Chloroxylenol BP

 

  1. Physical & Chemical Properties
  • Physical State: Crystalline solid or flakes

  • Color & Odor: Pale yellow to colorless; mild phenolic odor

  • Melting Point: 69–74°C

  • Boiling Point: Approximately 285°C (decomposes)

  • Density: 1.24 g/cm³ at 20°C

  • Solubility:

    • Slightly soluble in water (~1.2 g/L at 20°C)

    • Soluble in ethanol, ether, and other organic solvents

  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to light and strong oxidizers

 

  1. Safety & Hazard Attributes
  • Hazard Class (GHS): Harmful if swallowed; skin and eye irritant

  • NFPA Ratings: Health 2, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0

  • Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits; avoid inhalation and skin contact

  • Toxicity: Low to moderate toxicity; safe within recommended use levels

  • Reactivity: Stable; avoid mixing with strong oxidizers and acids

 

  1. Storage & Handling Attributes
  • Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight

  • Container Type: Amber glass or HDPE containers with tight seals

  • Shelf Life: 2–3 years when stored properly

  • Special Handling: Use PPE including gloves, goggles, and masks to avoid dust or vapor exposure

 

  1. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
  • Included in British Pharmacopoeia (BP) standards for antiseptics

  • Approved by global regulatory agencies for antiseptic and disinfectant use

  • Registered under REACH and other chemical safety frameworks

  • Transportation: Not classified as hazardous material for transport under normal conditions

  • Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local environmental regulations for phenolic substances

 

  1. Environmental & Health Impact
  • Ecotoxicity: Moderately toxic to aquatic life; avoid environmental release

  • Persistence: Biodegradable under aerobic conditions, may persist anaerobically

  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable in the environment

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
  • Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE: Chemical-resistant gloves, protective eyewear, lab coat/apron, respiratory protection when handling powders or aerosols

  • Handling: Avoid inhalation of dust or vapors; use in well-ventilated areas

  • Storage: Keep container tightly closed, away from heat, sparks, and sunlight

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after use; avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move victim to fresh air; provide oxygen if breathing is difficult; seek medical attention if symptoms persist

  • Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation occurs

  • Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; get medical help if irritation continues

  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Combustible solid; emits toxic fumes including chlorine-containing compounds and phenols when burned

  • Extinguishing Media: Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers

  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)

  • Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen chloride, other toxic fumes