Description
PCMX is an acronym for para-chloro-meta-xylenol, a chemical compound also known as chloroxylenol. It is a widely used antiseptic and disinfectant.
Chemical Properties
| Property | Details |
| Product Name | PCMX |
| Chemical Name | Para-Chloro-Meta-Xylenol |
| INCI Name | Chloroxylenol |
| Chemical Formula | C₈H₉ClO |
| CAS Number | 88-04-0 |
| Molecular Weight | 156.61 g/mol |
| Chemical Type | Chlorinated phenolic compound |
| Appearance | White to pale yellow crystalline solid |
| Odor | Phenolic / medicinal |
| Melting Point | ~114 – 116 °C |
| Boiling Point | ~246 °C |
| pH (1% solution) | ~5.0 – 7.0 |
| Solubility in Water | Slightly soluble |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Soluble in alcohol, ether, acetone |
| Density (25 °C) | ~1.25 g/cm³ |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions |
| Reactivity | Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents |
| Functional Property | Antimicrobial / antibacterial agent |
Uses
PCMX is a versatile chlorinated phenolic compound widely used for its antimicrobial and disinfectant properties. Its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of bacteria and fungi makes it a preferred active ingredient in medical, personal care, and household products.
Medical and Healthcare Applications
Antiseptic for Skin: PCMX is commonly used in preoperative skin preparation and hand scrubs for healthcare professionals to reduce the risk of infection.
Wound Care: Included in wound-cleansing solutions and topical antiseptic formulations to prevent microbial contamination and support healing.
Surgical Instrument Disinfection: Used in cleaning and sterilization processes for medical tools and equipment.
Hospitals & Clinics: Incorporated in soaps, lotions, and sanitizers for routine hygiene in healthcare facilities.
Household and Personal Care Products
Antibacterial Hand Soaps: PCMX helps reduce bacterial load on hands, making it a common active ingredient in liquid soaps and gel sanitizers.
Shampoos and Body Washes: Enhances hygiene by controlling bacterial growth on the skin and scalp.
Deodorants and Antiperspirants: Provides antimicrobial protection to reduce odor-causing bacteria.
Surface Disinfectants:Found in household sprays and cleaning solutions to sanitize surfaces and prevent microbial contamination.
Pharmaceutical Applications
Topical Medications: Used in creams, ointments, and solutions to prevent or treat minor skin infections.
WHO Essential Medicines: PCMX is listed by the World Health Organization as a safe and effective antiseptic for essential healthcare use.
Industrial and Other Applications
Cosmetic Products: Included as a preservative and antimicrobial agent to prolong shelf life.
Veterinary Use: Employed in antiseptic solutions for animal wound care and hygiene products.
Water Treatment (Limited): In some formulations, PCMX is used for microbial control in small-scale water disinfection.
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