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