Benzethonium chloride

Benzethonium chloride (CAS 121-54-0), commonly abbreviated as BZT, is a quaternary ammonium compound used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and preservative.

Where is Benzethonium chloride used?

• Pharmaceutical formulations: preservative in topical antiseptics, ophthalmic preparations and wound care products
• Personal care: hand sanitizers, skin cleansers and cosmetic preservative systems, as primary or co-preservative
• Industrial and institutional cleaning: active biocidal agent in surface disinfectants and sanitizing concentrates for healthcare and food-processing environments
• Water treatment and industrial processes: biocide controlling microbial growth in recirculating systems and cooling towers
• It disrupts microbial cell membranes, making it effective against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses at low use concentrations.

Good to know: USP is the most commonly specified grade for pharmaceutical and personal care procurement.

Commercial specifications

• Bulk quantities in fiber drums or multi-layer bags
• Powder in drums; liquid grades in IBC or drum packaging