Chloroxylenol (PCMX) Powder

Chemical Name: 4-Chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol
Synonyms: PCMX, Para-chloro-meta-xylenol
CAS Number: 88-04-0
Molecular Formula: C₈H₉ClO
Molecular Weight: 156.61 g/mol

Description:

Chloroxylenol, also known as PCMX, is a white to off-white crystalline powder with strong antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. It is effective against a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Chloroxylenol is widely used in medical, pharmaceutical, personal care, and industrial formulations, especially as a disinfectant and preservative in various products.

Applications:

1. Healthcare and Medical Use:
   • Antiseptic Soaps and Lotions: Chloroxylenol is commonly used in handwashes, surgical scrubs, and disinfectant soaps in hospitals and clinics to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and infection.
   • Wound Cleansing Solutions: Used in antiseptic solutions for cleaning wounds and preventing infection due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.
   • Disinfectants: Found in medical disinfectants and surgical scrubs for sanitizing medical tools and surfaces, ensuring a sterile environment.
2. Personal Care Products:
   • Antibacterial Soaps and Cleansers: Included in personal hygiene products like antibacterial hand soaps, body washes, and lotions to reduce bacteria on the skin and prevent infection.
   • Deodorants and Antiperspirants: Acts as a preservative and deodorizing agent in some formulations, helping to control body odor by preventing bacterial growth.
   • Household Disinfectants: Chloroxylenol is a key ingredient in various household disinfectants and surface cleaners used to sanitize kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-contact areas.
3. Industrial and Institutional Use:
   • Surface Cleaners: Used in formulations for cleaning hard surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and walls in hospitals, schools, and other public spaces to ensure hygiene and safety.
   • Water Treatment: Chloroxylenol can be employed in industrial water treatment processes to control microbial growth in cooling towers and other water systems.
4. Veterinary Use:
   • Animal Disinfectants: Formulated into antiseptic sprays, washes, and soaps for use in animal care to disinfect wounds and maintain hygiene in kennels, barns, and other animal care environments.

Advantages:

• Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial: Chloroxylenol is effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses, making it a versatile ingredient in many disinfectants and antiseptics.
• Low Toxicity: At recommended concentrations, Chloroxylenol has low toxicity to humans, making it safe for use in personal care and medical applications.
• Stable and Long-Lasting: Provides lasting antimicrobial activity, ensuring continued protection after application.

Safety and Regulatory Considerations:

• Skin Sensitization: Though generally safe, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using products containing Chloroxylenol. It should be used with caution, particularly on sensitive or damaged skin.
• Regulatory Limits: PCMX is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 5% in personal care and healthcare formulations, depending on the product’s purpose and application.
• Toxicity: Ingestion or inhalation of large quantities can be harmful. Proper safety measures should be followed during handling.

Handling and Storage:

• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep away from heat, open flames, and strong oxidizers. Keep the container tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
• Handling Precautions: Use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, masks, and goggles, when handling the powder. Avoid inhalation of dust and direct skin contact.