Chloroxylenol (CAS 88-04-0), commonly abbreviated as PCMX, is a secure and efficient antimicrobial agent utilized as the active ingredient in iconic antiseptic liquids and antibacterial soaps. Chemically identified as 4-Chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, this white to off-white crystalline powder functions by disrupting the cell membrane potentials of bacteria, exhibiting potent activity against Gram-positive strains. As a stable Halogenated phenol derivative, it is extensively integrated into medical disinfectants, household sanitizers, and personal care products like deodorants and hand washes to ensure hygiene and infection control. We ensure bulk supply capabilities for this material, providing access to competitive factory pricing and customized specifications to meet specific solubility and mesh size requirements. Full technical documentation, including MSDS, TDS, COA, is available to support compliance and safety protocols.
Chloroxylenol PCMX CAS 88-04-0
- CAS: 88-04-0
- Synonyms: PCMX, 4-Chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, p-Chloro-m-xylenol, 4-Chloro-3,5-xylenol, Para-chloro-meta-xylenol
- Einecs: 201-793-8
- Molecular Formula: C8H9ClO
- Grade: Cosmetic Grade / USP / BP Grade
- Package: 25kg/Fiber Drum or as per customer request
Product Description
Chloroxylenol (PCMX) is a secure, high-efficient, broad-spectrum, and low-toxic antiseptic agent. It is a highly effective antimicrobial chemical compound used to control bacteria, algae, and fungi. PCMX is widely recognized for its excellent chemical stability and does not lose activity in standard storage conditions. It is compatible with a wide range of surfactants and is the core active ingredient in many well-known antibacterial soaps, clean-safe liquids, and general disinfectants. Our product is manufactured to meet strict international standards, ensuring low impurity levels and high whiteness suitable for premium cosmetic and medical applications.
Physicochemical Properties
The following specifications represent our standard export quality control parameters:
| Test Item | Specification / Standard |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White or off-white crystalline powder |
| Assay (Purity) | ≥ 98.5% |
| Melting Point | 114°C – 116°C |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.5% |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.1% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 50 ppm |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, ether, benzene, terpenes; Insoluble in water |
| Odor | Characteristic phenolic odor |
| pH Value | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Stability | Stable under normal temperatures and pressures |
Applications
Chloroxylenol (PCMX) is versatile and used across various industries due to its potent bactericidal properties:
- Medical & Hospitals:
- Used as a skin disinfectant and surgical instrument sanitizer.
- Active ingredient in medical-grade antibacterial liquids (e.g., wound cleaners).
- Personal Care & Cosmetics:
- Antibacterial Soap: A key ingredient in solid and liquid hand soaps.
- Hair Care: Used in anti-dandruff shampoos.
- Hygiene: Foot care products, deodorants, and hand sanitizers.
- Recommended dosage in cosmetics: 0.2% – 1.0%.
- Household Daily Chemicals:
- Laundry disinfectants and fabric sanitizers.
- Floor cleaners and surface disinfectants.
- Industrial Applications:
- Preservative in glues, paints, textiles, paper making, and leather processing to prevent mildew and bacterial growth.
Storage Conditions
- Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place generally below 30°C.
- Environment: Keep container tightly closed in a well-ventilated area.
- Protection: Protect from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat sources.
- Compatibility: Keep away from strong oxidizing agents and strong bases.
Safety Precautions
- Handling: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to avoid inhalation of powder.
- Skin Contact: May cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Disposal: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. Do not release directly into the environment in large quantities.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
How is Chloroxylenol (PCMX) CAS 88-04-0 chemically characterized in the biocides market?
A: Chloroxylenol (CAS 88-04-0) is chemically characterized as a substituted phenol, specifically 4-Chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, and is supplied as a low-toxicity bactericide with a characteristic phenolic odor. -
Q:
Is this ingredient suitable for use in liquid antiseptic formulations?
A: Yes, this material is the primary active ingredient in many renowned antiseptic liquids (often solubilized with pine oil or alcohol) due to its broad-spectrum efficacy and low irritation profile on intact skin.
Documents and Product Support
For product review and sourcing evaluation, supporting documents can be coordinated according to the product type, inquiry stage, and order requirements.
- COA for batch-based quality reference
- TDS for key physical and chemical information
- SDS / MSDS for handling, storage, and safety reference
- Packing information for sample, trial, and bulk orders
- Technical communication based on application and specification requirements
Information to Confirm Before Quotation
Clear sourcing information helps reduce specification mismatch and allows a more accurate quotation before sample or bulk order discussion.
- Product name and CAS number
- Application or intended end use
- Required purity, grade, or specification
- Sample quantity, trial order, or bulk demand
- Preferred packing form or net weight
- Destination country or port
- Required documents or compliance expectations
Packaging, Storage, and Handling Notes
Packaging form, storage conditions, shelf life, and shipment arrangements should be confirmed according to the product characteristics, package size, and destination requirements.
Before order confirmation, buyers are advised to review the corresponding product documents and confirm whether any special storage, labeling, or handling requirements apply.
Sample, Bulk Order and Repeat Supply Support
Support can be arranged for sample discussion, bulk supply planning, packaging confirmation, and routine sourcing communication based on the actual product and order requirements.
For repeat-use formulations or long-term procurement plans, buyers may discuss specification consistency, packaging preferences, delivery expectations, and document coordination in advance.




