Benzethonium chloride
Benzethonium chloride (CAS: 121-54-0) is a synthetic quaternary ammonium compound with the molecular formula C27H42ClNO2 and a molecular weight of 448.08 g/mol. It functions as a cationic detergent and a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. Benzethonium chloride is widely utilized in various applications due to its disinfectant and antiseptic properties, including personal care products, cleaning solutions, and laboratory reagents.
- IUPAC
- (Diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl)dimethylbenzylammonium chloride,Benzethonii chloridum,Phemerol chloride
- Synonyms
- Benzetonii chloridum(Diisobutylphenoxyethoxyethyl)dimethylbenzylammonium chloridePhemerol chloride

Antimicrobial Agent
Benzethonium chloride exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. It is incorporated into antiseptic wipes, hand sanitisers, and topical formulations to prevent infections and promote hygiene.
Preservative
Its antimicrobial properties make it an effective preservative in various cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations. It helps to maintain product integrity and prevent microbial contamination during storage and use.
Detergent and Surfactant
As a cationic detergent, benzethonium chloride possesses excellent surface-active properties. This makes it useful in cleaning formulations and as a wetting agent in certain industrial processes.
Laboratory Reagent
In research and development settings, benzethonium chloride is employed as a biochemical reagent and for use in chemical synthesis. Its specific properties are valuable for various experimental protocols.
| Molecular weight | 448.08 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C27H42ClNO2 |
| Assay | ≥96.0% (AT) |
| Density | 0.998 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Concentration | 4 mM in H2O |
| Impurities tested | ~2% water |
| Melting point | 162-164 °C(lit.) |



Hazard statements
- H301Toxic if swallowed
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H410Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
- P501Dispose of contents and container per local regulations
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2923 8/PG 3 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C,N |
| Risk statements (R) | 22-34-50/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45-61 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Description | cationic |
|---|---|
| Pharmacopeia | testing conforms to Pharmacopeia |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Benzethonium chloride used for?
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Benzethonium chloride is primarily used as an antimicrobial agent in antiseptics, disinfectants, and preservatives, and also functions as a cationic detergent in cleaning formulations and as a laboratory reagent.
What are the CAS number and formula for Benzethonium chloride?
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The CAS number for Benzethonium chloride is 121-54-0 and its empirical formula (Hill notation) is C27H42ClNO2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Benzethonium chloride with an assay of ≥96.0% (AT), with approximately 2% water as an impurity. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated otherwise.
How should Benzethonium chloride be handled safely?
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Benzethonium chloride is classified as dangerous (Danger signal word). It is corrosive and toxic, causing severe skin burns and eye damage, and is toxic if swallowed. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and respiratory protection (type N100/P3 filters), must be used. Handle in a well-ventilated area and avoid release into the environment.
How is Benzethonium chloride packed, shipped, and exported?
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Benzethonium chloride is shipped as UN 2923, Class 8, Packing Group III. Tech Serve Solutions handles all aspects of packing, shipping, and exporting to meet international regulations.
How can I request a sample or a quote for Benzethonium chloride?
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Please contact our sales team through the website or by phone to request a sample or obtain a quotation for Benzethonium chloride.
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