Chloroxylenol BP
Chloroxylenol BP 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.
Chloroxylenol BP
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.
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
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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
6. 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
- 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
Related products
Boric Acid
Boric Acid, chemically known as hydrogen borate or boracic acid, is a weak, monobasic Lewis acid of boron. It appears as a white, crystalline powder or granules that are odorless and slightly soluble in water. Boric Acid is commonly used in antiseptics, insecticides, flame retardants, and as a buffering agent in various industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Due to its mild antiseptic and antifungal properties, it is often used in ophthalmic, dermatologic, and other personal care formulations. It also plays a key role in glass and ceramics manufacturing as well as in agriculture.
Cetrimide Powder
Cetrimide Powder is a high-purity quaternary ammonium compound widely used for its antiseptic, disinfectant, and surfactant properties. It is a cationic surfactant derived from cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a slight characteristic odor. Known for its excellent antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria and fungi, cetrimide is frequently incorporated in pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial formulations. It acts as a bactericidal agent, detergent, and emulsifier, providing effective cleaning and disinfecting action.
Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Chloride
Cetyl Trimethyl Ammonium Chloride (CTAC) is a cationic surfactant and quaternary ammonium compound characterized by a long hydrophobic cetyl (C16) alkyl chain and a positively charged ammonium head group. It appears as a white to pale yellow powder or flakes, soluble in water, and exhibits strong surface-active properties. CTAC is widely used in cosmetics, personal care, and industrial applications for its excellent conditioning, antistatic, emulsifying, and disinfectant capabilities. It functions primarily as a fabric softener, hair conditioner, and antimicrobial agent.
Chlorobutanol BP
Chlorobutanol BP (also known as 1,1,1-Trichloro-2-methyl-2-propanol) is a white crystalline solid or powder, with a slight camphor-like odor and a bitter taste. It is a multifunctional preservative, anesthetic, and antimicrobial agent commonly used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care products. Chlorobutanol exhibits bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties, making it effective in preventing microbial contamination in aqueous formulations. It also possesses mild local anesthetic effects, frequently used in ophthalmic and injectable preparations as a preservative and stabilizer.
Chlorocresol BP
Chlorocresol BP, also known as PCMC (Para-Chlorometa-Cresol), is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a characteristic phenolic odor. It is a chlorinated phenol derivative widely used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative. It exhibits effective bactericidal and fungicidal activity, making it a preferred preservative in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care products. Chlorocresol is valued for its stability, solubility in aqueous and alcoholic systems, and compatibility with various formulation types. It helps inhibit microbial growth, thereby enhancing product shelf life and safety.
Iodine Crystals
Iodine Crystals are high-purity elemental iodine in solid crystalline form. These dark violet-black crystals have a characteristic pungent odor and sublime easily at room temperature, releasing violet iodine vapors. Iodine is a halogen element widely used for its antiseptic, oxidizing, and chemical reagent properties in pharmaceutical, industrial, and laboratory applications.
Phenol Ice Crystals
Phenol Ice Crystals, also known as carbolic acid in solid form, are crystalline compounds of phenol with a melting point near room temperature, giving them an “ice-like” appearance. Phenol is a aromatic organic compound widely used as a precursor in chemical synthesis, disinfectants, and pharmaceuticals. It exhibits antiseptic, antiseptic, and solvent properties. Due to its toxicity and corrosiveness, phenol requires careful handling.

Preservatives(food)
Flavor Enhancers
Acidulants
Sweeteners
Antioxidants
Colorants(food)
Nutraceutical Ingredients (food)
Nutrient Supplements
Emulsifiers
Collectors
Dust Suppressants
Explosives and Blasting Agents
Flocculants and Coagulants
Frothers
Leaching Agents
pH Modifiers
Precious Metal Extraction Agents
Antioxidants(plastic)
Colorants (Pigments, Dyes)
Fillers and Reinforcements
Flame Retardants
Monomers
Plasticizers
Polymerization Initiators
Stabilizers (UV, Heat)
Antifoaming Agents
Chelating Agents
Coagulants and Flocculants
Corrosion Inhibitors
Disinfectants and Biocides
Oxidizing Agents
pH Adjusters
Scale Inhibitors( water)
Antioxidants(cosmetic)
Emollients
Fragrances and Essential Oils
Humectants
Preservatives
Surfactants(cosmetic)
Thickeners
UV Filters
Fertilizers
Soil Conditioners
Plant Growth Regulators
Animal Feed Additives
Biostimulants
Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides)
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)
Excipients
Solvents(pharmaceutical)
Antibiotics
Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Vaccine Adjuvants
Nutraceutical Ingredients (pharmaceutical)
Analgesics & Antipyretics
Analytical Reagents
Solvents(lab)
Chromatography Chemicals
Spectroscopy Reagents
microbiology-and-cell-culture-reagents
Molecular Biology Reagents
Biochemical Reagents
Inorganic and Organic Standards
Laboratory Safety Chemicals
Specialty Laboratory Chemicals(Special Laboratory Equipment)
Demulsifiers
Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids
Scale Inhibitors(oil)
Surfactants(oil)
Drilling Fluids
Dyes and Pigments
Bleaching Agents
Softening Agents
Finishing Agents
Antistatic Agents
Admixtures
Waterproofing Agents
Sealants and Adhesives
Curing Compounds
Concrete Repair Chemicals
Anti-Corrosion Coatings
Surfactants(cleaning)
Builders
Enzymes
Solvents (Cleaning)
Fragrances
Electronic Chemicals
Catalysts
Lubricants
Photographic Chemicals
Refrigerants
Automotive chemicals
Pyrotechnic Chemicals
Biodegradable Surfactants
Bio-based Solvents
Renewable Polymers
Carbon Capture Chemicals
Wastewater Treatment Chemicals
Pigments
Solvents(paint)
Specialty Coatings
Binders/Resins
Additives
Driers
Anti-Corrosion Agents
Functional Coatings
Application-Specific Coatings
Leavening Agents
Dough Conditioners
Flour Treatments
Fat Replacers
Decoratives
Preservatives(baking)
Plasticizers & Softeners
Reinforcing Agents
Adhesion Promoters
Vulcanizing Agents
Antidegradants
Blowing Agents
Fillers & Extenders
Accelerators & Retarders