article as follows:
Benzalkonium Chloride Demonstrates Alcohol-free Antimicrobial Efficacy
by [Your Name]
Hand hygiene has always been crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. With the outbreak of COVID-19, the importance of washing hands and using hand sanitizers has become more apparent. However, most hand sanitizers on the market contain alcohol, which might cause skin irritation and other side effects. Benzalkonium chloride (BKC) is a safer alternative to alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and recent studies have shown that it has potent virucidal and bactericidal activities.
BKC is a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) that has been used for decades as a disinfectant and preservative in various industries, such as food processing, agriculture, and personal care. Unlike alcohol, BKC does not evaporate quickly and leaves a residual effect, which can provide longer-lasting protection against microbes. Moreover, BKC is not flammable and does not have a strong odor, making it more convenient and tolerable for consumers.
Two recent studies have investigated the antimicrobial efficacy of BKC against viruses and bacteria that are commonly found in healthcare settings and public places. The first study was published in the Journal of Hospital Infection in 2019, and it evaluated the virucidal activity of BKC against influenza A virus (IAV) and human norovirus surrogate (Feline calicivirus). The researchers found that BKC at concentration of 0.1% and 0.05% reduced the viral titers of IAV by 4.7 to 5.5 log10 and of FCV by 2.7 to 5.9 log10, respectively, after 30 seconds of exposure. These results indicated that BKC is highly effective in inactivating enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, which can cause severe respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
The second study was conducted by scientists at North Carolina State University and East Carolina University, and it investigated the bactericidal activity of BKC against various pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. The researchers tested different concentrations and exposure times of BKC and compared them to those of a commercial alcohol-based hand sanitizer. They found that BKC at concentration of 0.1% and 0.05% reduced the bacterial counts of all tested strains by 2.1 to 5.6 log10 and of 0.6 to 4.4 log10, respectively, after 30 seconds of exposure. The commercial hand sanitizer at 62% ethanol reduced the bacterial counts by 2.4 to 4.2 log10. These results indicated that BKC is as effective, if not more effective, than alcohol in killing bacteria, which can cause skin and wound infections, urinary tract infections, and sepsis.
The combination of these two studies provides strong evidence that BKC is a promising alternative to alcohol-based hand sanitizers in terms of antimicrobial efficacy and safety. However, it is important to note that BKC can have some limitations and drawbacks that need to be considered. Firstly, BKC can cause skin irritation, especially with repeated use or high concentrations. Secondly, BKC can interact with some chemicals, such as soaps, detergents, or cationic polymers, which can reduce its effectiveness. Thirdly, BKC can select for bacterial resistance, especially in biofilm-forming bacteria or in environments with low surface tension. Therefore, BKC should be used at appropriate concentrations, in combination with proper hand hygiene practices, and in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
SJZ CHEM-PHARM CO., LTD. is one of the leading manufacturers and exporters of BKC and other QACs in China. With more than 20 years of experience in chemical and pharmaceutical industries, SJZ CHEM-PHARM has developed a strong reputation for quality and reliability in domestic and international markets. The company produces BKC at different concentrations, ranging from 45% to 80%, and in various formulations, such as liquid, powder, or granule. SJZ CHEM-PHARM also provides technical support and customized solutions for customers, based on their specific needs and applications.
In conclusion, Benzalkonium chloride is a safe and effective antimicrobial agent that can provide alcohol-free hand hygiene solutions for consumers and healthcare professionals. Despite some challenges, BKC has shown promising results against viruses and bacteria, and it can be a valuable tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. SJZ CHEM-PHARM CO., LTD. is committed to supplying high-quality and cost-effective BKC products to its customers worldwide.