Benzyltrimethylammonium chloride

Benzyltrimethylammonium chloride (CAS 56-93-9), commonly abbreviated as BTMAC or TMBAC, is a quaternary ammonium salt used across chemical synthesis, preservation, and formulation applications. It functions primarily as a phase-transfer catalyst and antimicrobial agent, enabling efficient reaction conditions and broad-spectrum biocidal activity in various industrial processes.

In pharmaceutical and fine chemical manufacturing, BTMAC accelerates reactions between aqueous and organic phases, reducing processing time and improving yields in API synthesis. Personal care and cosmetic formulators incorporate it as a preservative and conditioning agent in rinse-off and leave-on products to ensure product stability and safety.

Agricultural formulations use it as a biocidal active or adjuvant to enhance the efficacy of crop protection products, while biotechnology sectors use it for cell disruption. It serves as a reagent in nucleic acid extraction workflows and is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder or as an aqueous solution at various concentrations.

Standard commercial grades include technical and pharmaceutical-grade material, with purity levels typically ranging from 97% to 99%+ for synthesis and regulated applications. Packaging options range from kilogram-scale laboratory quantities to bulk industrial supply, ensuring flexibility for both research and large-scale manufacturing needs.