Benzyl alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride
Benzyl-alkyl-dimethyl-ammonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC), often used as a disinfectant, antiseptic, or surfactant. It belongs to a group of benzalkonium chlorides (BACs), which vary by the length of the alkyl chain (C12–C18).
🧪 Chemical Structure
General formula:
[C₆H₅CH₂N(CH₃)₂R]⁺ Cl⁻
Where R is a long-chain alkyl group (e.g., dodecyl, tetradecyl).
🧼 Common Uses
- Disinfectants (hospital and household cleaners)
- Skin antiseptics and hand sanitizers
- Preservatives in eye drops, nasal sprays, cosmetics
- Algaecides and fungicides in water treatment
- Textile softeners and antistatic agents
🌡️ Properties
Property | Value |
---|---|
Appearance | Clear to yellowish liquid or solid |
Solubility | Highly soluble in water and ethanol |
pH | ~6–8 (in solution) |
Odor | Faint aromatic |
Surface active | Yes – acts as a cationic surfactant |
⚠️ Safety & Handling
- Irritant to skin and mucous membranes
- Can be toxic to aquatic organisms
- Use with gloves and proper ventilation
- Biodegradability varies by alkyl chain length
🧪 Example of a Specific Form
Benzalkonium chloride (BAC 12, BAC 14, BAC 16)
Mixture of C12–C16 alkyl chains, used widely in:
- Detergent formulations
- Antibacterial wipes and sprays
- Pool and surface sanitizers