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 across pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial applications.

It functions by disrupting microbial cell membranes, making it effective against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses at low use concentrations. In pharmaceutical formulations, BZT is used as a preservative in topical antiseptics.

It is also found in ophthalmic preparations and wound care products where microbial contamination control is critical. Personal care manufacturers incorporate it into hand sanitizers, skin cleansers, and cosmetic preservative systems.

It can be used as a primary or co-preservative. In industrial and institutional cleaning, it serves as the active biocidal agent in surface disinfectants and sanitizing concentrates targeting healthcare and food-processing environments.

Water treatment and industrial process applications use BZT as a biocide to control microbial growth in recirculating systems and cooling towers. Benzethonium chloride is supplied as a white crystalline powder and as aqueous solutions.

Standard grades include USP, BP, and technical grade, with USP being the most commonly specified for pharmaceutical and personal care procurement. Bulk quantities are available in fiber drums or multi-layer bags.

Powder forms are typically shipped in drums, while liquid grades are available in IBC or drum packaging. This versatile compound remains a staple for manufacturers requiring reliable antimicrobial performance and stability.