🧪 Benzalkonium Chloride Overview

• Chemical type: Quaternary ammonium compound (QAC)
• Formula: C₆H₅CH₂N(CH₃)₂R⁺ Cl⁻ (where R is an alkyl chain, usually C12–C18)
• Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid or powder (depending on concentration and form)
• Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol

🌍 Uses of Benzalkonium Chloride:

1. Antiseptic & Disinfectant:
   • Kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses
   • Used in hand sanitizers, wound cleansers, and antiseptic wipes
2. Pharmaceuticals & Eye Drops:
   • Preservative in nasal sprays, eye drops, and ointments
3. Surface and Industrial Disinfection:
   • Common in hospital-grade cleaners, food-processing sanitizers, and household products
4. Water Treatment:
   • Controls algae and microbial growth in cooling towers and pools
5. Personal Care Products:
   • Found in shampoos, conditioners, deodorants (as preservative or active biocide)

⚠️ Safety and Handling

• Irritating to skin and eyes in concentrated form
• Toxic to aquatic organisms — avoid direct release into the environment
• Use gloves and protective equipment when handling concentrated solutions