Benzalkonium chloride (dichloromethylbenzyl ammonium chloride) is a cationic surfactant. Its basic characteristics are as follows: Chemical properties

It belongs to quaternary ammonium salt compounds, with the chemical formula C₆H₅CH₂N(CH₃)₂CₙH₂ₙ⁺Cl (n = 8 - 18). It is synthesized by combining dodecyl bromide with dimethylamine and benzyl chloride. At room temperature, it is a yellowish-white waxy solid or gel-like substance, and is easily soluble in water to form cationic active groups.

Antibacterial mechanism

It achieves antibacterial effects by destroying the cell walls of microorganisms (such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, etc.), inhibiting enzyme activity, and interfering with DNA replication. It has inhibitory effects on both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Application fields

‌Medical disinfection‌: 0.05% - 0.1% solution is used for skin and mucous membrane disinfection and sterilization of surgical instruments (soaking for 30 minutes); ‌

‌Industrial sterilization‌: water treatment, livestock pen disinfectant; ‌

‌Personal care‌: antibacterial components in shampoos, body washes, etc. ‌ Safety

Low toxicity (LD₅₀ for rats is 300mg/kg), non-corrosive, but contact with eyes should be avoided and prolonged or excessive use is not recommended.