Overview
Cetalkonium chloride (CAS 122-18-9 ), also known as CKC and commercially as Banicol, is a quaternary ammonium compound used across pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial sectors. Its cationic character enables it to bind to negatively charged surfaces.
This chemical acts as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and surface-active agent, making it effective for both preservation and surface modification applications. In ophthalmic and topical pharmaceutical formulations, CKC functions as a preservative at low concentrations.
It is essential for preventing microbial contamination in multi-dose products. Personal care manufacturers incorporate it into hair conditioning products and rinse-off treatments where it imparts antistatic properties and improves wet combability.
By adsorbing onto hair fiber surfaces, it enhances the overall texture and manageability of the hair. Textile and leather processors use it as a softening and finishing agent, modifying surface feel and providing durable antimicrobial protection.
In paper manufacturing, it supports wet-end chemistry as a biocidal additive to control microbial growth in process water and slurries. This ensures the integrity of the production process and the quality of the final paper products.
Cetalkonium chloride is supplied as an aqueous solution, typically at concentrations of 25% or 50% active content. Technical and pharmaceutical-grade material is available to meet the quality requirements of industrial and regulated end-use markets.
Buyers should confirm purity specifications and counterion content when sourcing for pharmaceutical or personal care applications. Ensuring the correct grade is vital for maintaining safety and efficacy in sensitive consumer formulations.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 59 °C |
| Boiling Point | 550.14°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | 0.9089 (rough estimate) |
| Appearance | white to creamy-white crystalline powder |
| Color | White to creamy-white |
| Form | Powder |
| Water Solubility | MODERATELY SOLUBLE |
| Vapor Pressure | 0Pa at 25℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.6000 (estimate) |
| Log P | 3.022 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling
Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS09 GHS08 GHS06 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H330 Fatal if inhaled H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H400 Very toxic to aquatic life H401 Toxic to aquatic life H410 Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P284 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P320 Specific treatment is urgent (see … on this label). P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29239000 |
| UN Number | 3077 |
| ADR Class | 9 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 122-18-9
- EC Number
- 204-526-3
- Mol. Weight
- 396.1
- HS Code
- 29239000
- Category
- Amines