Benzalkonium Chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound widely used as a cationic surfactant and antimicrobial active in hygiene, cleaning, and related formulation systems. In commercial supply, it is typically handled as a solution-based product for formulation use rather than as a simple single-component pure substance. Supplier-side applications commonly focus on disinfectant concentrates, surface cleaning systems, sanitation products, and selected industrial formulations where cationic activity and formulation compatibility are required. Standard export supply can be arranged, with COA, TDS, and SDS available according to customer requirements. Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB) is a related polymeric antimicrobial active to compare where biguanide chemistry is required instead of a quaternary ammonium system.
Benzalkonium Chloride CAS 8001-54-5
- CAS: 8001-54-5
- Synonyms: Benzalkonium Chloride; Alkyldimethylbenzylammonium Chloride; BAC; BKC
- Einecs: 616-786-9
- Grade: Disinfectant Grade / Industrial Grade / Cosmetic Preservative Grade
- Package: Standard export packaging can be arranged according to concentration, order quantity, and logistics requirements.
Product Description
Physicochemical Properties
| Item | Typical Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow clear liquid depending on concentration and grade |
| Product Type | Quaternary ammonium compound / cationic surfactant |
| Commercial Nature | Mixed alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium chloride system |
| Supply Form | Usually supplied as aqueous solution |
| Common Commercial Strength | Commercial grades are often offered in solution form according to agreed specification |
| Odor | Mild characteristic odor |
| Solubility | Suitable for liquid formulation systems; actual compatibility depends on formulation design |
| Functional Character | Cationic surface activity with preservative or antimicrobial formulation use depending on application and local compliance requirements |
Typical Applications
- Disinfectant concentrate formulations
- Hard surface cleaning and sanitation products
- Industrial and institutional hygiene formulations
- Selected water-based cleaning systems
- Preservative-related use in suitable formulation systems where permitted
Actual end-use suitability should be evaluated according to local regulatory requirements, target market compliance, and final formulation design.
Functional Role
Benzalkonium Chloride is generally used as a cationic surfactant and antimicrobial active in cleaning, hygiene, and preservative-related applications. In supplier practice, it is commonly positioned as a functional raw material for liquid systems that require cationic performance and broad formulation utility.
Typical Supply Form
This product is commonly supplied as a liquid solution for downstream formulation. Concentration, packaging format, and documentation can be arranged according to the agreed specification and application direction.
For related quaternary ammonium compound pages, compare DTAC, Benzethonium Chloride, and Cetrimonium Chloride.
Packaging
Benzalkonium Chloride can be supplied in sealed industrial packaging suitable for liquid chemical transport and export shipment. Packaging arrangement can be made according to concentration, shipment method, and order volume.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place in tightly closed original containers. Protect from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and contamination. Follow the applicable SDS and local handling requirements during storage, transfer, and transportation.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Benzalkonium Chloride CAS 8001-54-5?
A: Benzalkonium Chloride, also called BAC or BKC, is a cationic quaternary ammonium compound with CAS 8001-54-5 and EC 616-786-9. It is a mixed alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium chloride system rather than a single pure molecule, and is normally supplied as an aqueous solution or concentrate. -
Q:
Is Benzalkonium Chloride a single pure substance?
A: No. Commercial Benzalkonium Chloride is a mixture of alkyl benzyl dimethyl ammonium chlorides. Standard grades are often based mainly on C12 and C14 alkyl chains, so the alkyl distribution and active content are important product specifications, not just the CAS number. -
Q:
What common Benzalkonium Chloride strengths are available?
A: Liquid grades commonly include about 50% and 80% active matter, while high-active powder forms are also available. Depending on grade, suppliers may specify active content, appearance, pH, free amine, color, and alkyl distribution, so the chosen strength should match the target formulation and use concentration. -
Q:
What are the main uses of Benzalkonium Chloride?
A: It is used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and cationic surfactant in disinfectant concentrates, hard-surface sanitizers, industrial and institutional hygiene products, and water-treatment biocide or algaecide systems. In suitable products it is also used at low, controlled concentrations for preservative-related applications where local regulations permit. -
Q:
Which compatibility issues should be checked with Benzalkonium Chloride?
A: Because BAC is cationic, it can be incompatible with anionic surfactants, soaps, and some complex anions, potentially reducing activity or causing separation. Formulators should check charge compatibility, dilution pH, and interaction with other actives before finalizing the formulation.
Ordering & Documentation
Key information for document requests, quotations, and supply planning.
Documents
COA, TDS, SDS/MSDS and packing details are available on request.
Quotation
Send the CAS number, grade, quantity, packing preference and destination.
Sample & Supply
Support is available for samples, trial orders, bulk and repeat supply.
Storage & Shipping
Product-specific conditions are confirmed before order.

