Stearalkonium chloride

Stearalkonium chloride (CAS 122-19-0), also known as Stearyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and commercially as Stebac, is a quaternary ammonium compound used as a conditioning agent, antimicrobial, and antistatic surfactant. Its cationic charge drives strong adsorption onto negatively charged surfaces, making it effective for surface modification, lubrication, and preservation in formulated products across personal care and industrial applications.

In hair care, it is a primary conditioning active in rinse-off conditioners, detangling treatments, and conditioning shampoos, where it smooths the hair cuticle and reduces static for improved manageability. Skin care and leave-on formulations use it as an emulsifier and feel modifier in creams and lotions. As a quaternary biocide, it is incorporated into preservation systems for cosmetic and personal care products.

These systems require broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity to ensure product stability. In biotechnology and life sciences, it functions as a surface-active agent in cell culture reagents and laboratory disinfectant formulations. Stearalkonium chloride is supplied as a white to off-white powder or as an aqueous solution, typically at concentrations of 50% or 75% active. Standard grades include cosmetic/personal care grade meeting purity specifications.

Technical grade is also available for industrial applications. Buyers should confirm active content and counterion purity when evaluating grades for preservation-critical formulations to ensure optimal performance.