Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is a synthetic organic compound that is used as a disinfectant and sanitizer. It is a white, powdery substance that is soluble in water and other polar solvents. BAC is typically used in concentrations of 0.1-0.5%, but can be as high as 2%. When used as a disinfectant, it can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is also effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including some drug-resistant strains.
BAC is often used in hospitals and other healthcare settings to disinfect surfaces and equipment. It is commonly used as an antiseptic for skin wounds and as a preservative in contact lens solutions. BAC is generally considered to be safe for human use, but can cause irritation and burns if it comes into direct contact with the skin or eyes.
Uses of benzalkonium chloride surfactant
Benzalkonium chloride is a wise choice as a surfactant.
- It is used as an antiseptic, bactericide, and fungicide in hospitals and clinics.
- As a surface disinfectant, it is used in laboratories and clean rooms.
- In food service, it is utilized as a sanitizer for hard surfaces such as tabletop and cutting boards.
- In dairy farms, it cleans and sanitizes milking equipment.
- In aquaculture, it treats fish to remove infectious diseases. In the oil industry, it emulsifies oil spillage for removal.
- Pest control operators use benzalkonium chloride solutions to kill roaches, ants, silverfish, centipedes, and millipedes among other pests.
- Janitors utilize the surfactant to scrub floors clean of dirt and grime.
- Carpet cleaners use it as well because of its ability to clean carpet fibers without harming them.
- Diluted solutions of benzalkonium chloride are used in household cleaning products such as all-purpose cleaners, bathroom cleaners, kitchen cleaners, glass cleaners, upholstery cleaners, and floor cleaners because of its grease and dirt dissolving properties.
- It is also an ingredient in hard surface wipes such as Pledge furniture polish wipes. As an active ingredient in many hand sanitizers, soaps, and lotions, benzalkonium chloride cleans hands without causing dryness.
- Ophthalmologists use the surfactant in eye drops because it does not irritate the eyes like other antiseptics do.
- It has even been found to be effective in treating dandruff and head lice when used in shampoo formulations.
Endnote:
The bottom line is that benzalkonium chloride is a versatile surfactant with many uses due to its safety and effectiveness. Even though benzalkonium chloride is considered to be a safe surfactant, there are some precautions that should be taken when using it.
It should not be used on open wounds or mucous membranes and if it gets in the eyes, rinse them out immediately with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists. Use benzalkonium chloride surfactant safely to gain the maximum benefits out of it!
