Chlorocresol

Chlorocresol (CAS 59-50-7), also known by the abbreviation PCMC, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial active used as a preservative and biocide across pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial formulations. It delivers effective protection against bacteria, fungi, and yeast at low use concentrations, making it a practical choice for formulators managing microbial challenge across diverse product types.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it is an established preservative in topical creams, ointments, and multi-dose injectable preparations where long-term microbial integrity is required for safety. Personal care formulators incorporate it into lotions, shampoos, and wet wipes to extend shelf life and meet preservation efficacy standards. In coatings, adhesives, and sealants, it functions as a preservative.

It protects water-based systems from microbial degradation during storage and after application. Industrial cutting fluids and metalworking emulsions also use PCMC to suppress bacterial growth during use. This suppression prevents the compromise of fluid performance and worker conditions. The material is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder or flake for easy handling in production.

Standard grades include pharmaceutical-grade material meeting BP and Ph.Eur. specifications, as well as technical grade for industrial preservation applications in various sectors. Packaging typically ranges from kilogram quantities up to bulk drum supply to suit both compounding and large-scale manufacturing requirements for global chemical distribution and logistics.