Benzyldimethyloctadecylammonium chloride

Benzyldimethyloctadecylammonium chloride (CAS 122-19-0), also known as stearalkonium chloride or SKC, is a quaternary ammonium compound supplied under trade names including Ammonyx 4, Ammonyx 4B, and Carsoquat SDQ 85. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified under EC 204-527-9.

In hair conditioning formulations, SKC adsorbs onto negatively charged keratin surfaces via electrostatic attraction, reducing static and improving combability. In industrial and personal care preservation, its cationic charge disrupts microbial cell membranes, providing broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It also functions as an emulsifier in cream and lotion systems by stabilising oil-water interfaces.

This material is available as a paste-grade product, typically supplied in drums or IBCs. It is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU and should be evaluated against relevant cosmetic regulation (EC 1223/2009) for leave-on and rinse-off applications. Buyers should confirm active content specification with the supplying batch documentation.