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BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE.

Valuable CAS 121-54-0 / ANTIMICROBIAL, DEODORANT, PRESERVATIVE, SURFACTANT - DISPERSING

A high-performance antimicrobial agent and cationic surfactant utilized for its rapid-acting ability to neutralize surface pathogens. While often found in sanitizing formulations, it also serves as a specialized preservative and deodorant active by maintaining surface purity.

antimicrobial preservative deodorant active surfactant

Science

This molecule carries a positive charge that allows it to adsorb onto the negatively charged cell walls of microbes. This attraction compromises the structural integrity of the microorganism's membrane, inducing cellular lysis and effectively halting bacterial or fungal proliferation.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–0.5%
Optimal

0.2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Chiang et al. (2005) established that 0.2% concentration achieves a 99.9% reduction in pathogens within 15 seconds, outperforming 60% alcohol during repeated usage cycles.
  2. 02 Toxicological assessments demonstrate a high safety profile with systemic absorption remaining below 4.72% over a 24-hour period (MoS > 250).

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
0.05%

Since its primary role is antimicrobial, using it below 0.1% may fail to provide the necessary sanitizing efficacy, though it may still function as a secondary preservative at lower levels.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient is highly stable within a broad pH range but requires protection from light and air exposure via airtight, opaque packaging to prevent degradation.

Conflicts

  • Anionic surfactants
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
  • Traditional soaps
  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Nitrates

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
0.5%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

The concentration limit is strictly capped at 0.5% for general skin and 0.02% for ocular applications. It is generally well-tolerated when formulated within these parameters.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

An exceptionally effective antimicrobial agent that provides superior surface hygiene with a significantly lower irritation profile than high-percentage alcohol.


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