Biocorrosion presents a major operational hazard for the oil and gas production industries. Benzalkonium chloride (BKC 50) is used to control the activities of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in sulphate rich waters and cause deposition of ferrous sulfides which causes pitting of steel equipment and pipelines. SRB are also implicated in oil well souring, and responsible for the liberation of toxic H2S gas. Additional applications of benzalkonium chloride include enhanced oil extraction through de-emulsification and sludge breaking.

Manufacture of disinfectants and detergent-sanitizers

On account of its non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-tainting, non-staining characteristics, benzalkonium chloride is the main active use in the formulation of disinfectants and bactericidal sanitizers for healthcare, personal hygiene, the public sector and to safeguard our agriculture and food supply. BKC 50 allow microbicidal and cleaning properties to be safely incorporated into hygiene products to enhance both penetration and removal of soil and disinfection of surfaces.

Pharmaceuticals and cosmetics

The safety factor of benzalkonium chloride allows its use in a wide range of leave-on skin sanitizers and sanitary baby wipes. BKC 50 is widely used as a preservative in ophthalmic, nasal and aural pharmaceutical preparations as well as to optimise emolliency and substantivity in formulations.

Water treatment. Benzalkonium chloride based formulations are used in water and effluent treatment and algaecides for swimming pools.

Aquaculture

Benzalkonium chloride reduces antibiotic requirement in aquaculture through improved hygiene. BKC is used for water treatment, fish parasite removal, general site disinfection, and infectious disease prevention in fish and shellfish.

Timber protection

Global environmental concern has led to increasing replacement of persistent chlorinated biocides with safer, biodegradable benzalkonium chloride in wood protection. BAC displays excellent fungicidal and algaecidal properties, and is highly effective against other organisms in combination formulations.

Pulp and paper industry

Benzalkonium chloride is used as a general microbicide for slime control and odor management in pulp mills. It improves paper handling and imparts strength and antistatic properties to paper products.

Textile industry

Benzalkonium chloride is used to protect natural fibers from the action of mold and fungi and as a moth repellent. It also acts as a permanent retarder in the dyeing of acrylic fibers with cationic dyestuffs.

Leather industry

Benzalkonium chloride inhibits growth of mold and mildew on hides and facilitates softening, wetting and dyeing of leather.

Horticulture and household

Benzalkonium chloride is highly effective against mold, mildew, moss, fungi and algae and is used for cleaning and preparation of all types of surfaces: greenhouses, roofing, paths, wooden decking, sheds, masonry

Chemical industry

Quaternary ammonium compounds have diverse applications in the chemical industry as precipitant, phase transfer catalyst on account of its ability to localize at oil/water and air/water interfaces, emulsifier/de-emulsifier, etc.

Polymer and coatings

Quaternary ammonium compounds are widely used as anti-static, emulsifier and preservative in the coatings industry (paints, wood treatment, electronics)