The livestock industry faces major challenges in maintaining farm hygiene and animal health, especially with the risk of disease outbreaks that can affect productivity. One of the commonly used solutions is benzalkonium chloride (BKC)—a disinfectant agent that helps maintain sanitation in barns and farm equipment. Want to learn how BKC can support better farm productivity? Read this article to explore its functions and benefits!
Introducing Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC)
Benzalkonium chloride (BZK, BKC, BAK, BAC), also known as alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (ADBAC), is a cationic surfactant whose alkyl chain length varies. It belongs to the quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) and is known for its three main uses, such as biocide, cationic surfactant, and phase transfer agent.
Characteristics of Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC)
Color | Colorless to pale yellow (impure) |
Solubility | Soluble in ethanol and acetone |
Decomposition in water | Quite slow |
pH | Neutral to slightly alkaline pH |
Appearance | Foams when dissolved |
Odor | Has a bitter taste and a slight almond smell. |
Applications of Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC) in Livestock Farming
BKC is widely used across different industries due to its antiseptic, disinfecting, and preservative properties. In livestock operations, BKC has several key applications that support farm hygiene and animal health:
- Disinfectant for Barns and Equipment: BKC is used to clean and sterilize barns, cages, and farm tools. Its ability to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi helps prevent disease transmission across livestock.
- Water Treatment: BKC is used in water treatment systems to ensure that drinking water for livestock is free from harmful microorganisms—supporting better animal health and productivity.
- Animal Hygiene Products: BKC is commonly used in animal hygiene solutions such as skin disinfectants or veterinary tools. This helps prevent skin infections or wounds that may affect livestock.
- Preservatives in Livestock Products: Some feed products or processed farm materials use BKC as a preservative to prevent microbial spoilage.
- Farm Environment Sanitation: Beyond barns and tools, BKC is used to clean surrounding farm areas, keeping the environment free from pathogens that could threaten animal health.
With these applications, BKC plays an important role in improving efficiency and productivity in livestock farming by keeping animals healthy and infection-free.
Advantages of Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC)
Unlike ethanol or hydrogen peroxide–based antiseptics, BKC does not cause a burning sensation when applied to skin. However, repeated or prolonged contact may still cause dermatitis.
Main Function: Disinfectant effective against both gram positive (+) and gram negative (–) bacteria
Composition: Benzalkonium chloride 80%
Dosage: 0.2 – 1 ppm
Important Usage Guidelines for BKC in Industry
Although benzalkonium chloride (BKC) has many industrial uses, its use must be approached with caution to ensure effectiveness and safety. Here are some precautions and guidelines to consider when using BKC in industry:
Correct Usage & Proper Dosage
Be sure to follow the instructions for use on the BKC product label. Incorrect dosage can reduce effectiveness or even be harmful to livestock and the environment. Avoid using BKC in excessively high concentrations, as it can cause irritation to the skin and respiratory tract of animals.
Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When applying BKC in liquid or spray form, ensure personnel wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and eye protection. This is essential to prevent direct contact with the skin and respiratory tract, which can cause irritation.
Good Ventilation
Ensure the area where BKC is applied is adequately ventilated. BKC can produce vapors or aerosols that are harmful if inhaled in large quantities, so it is important to work in a well-ventilated area.
Safe Storage
Keep BKC in a cool, dry place away from children and animals. Avoid storage with other chemicals that may be incompatible. Ensure containers are tightly closed.
Careful Use on Animals
Be sure to use BKC with caution on livestock, especially when sanitizing the body or equipment that comes into direct contact with the animals. Excessive or improper use can cause irritation or allergic reactions to the animal's skin.
Clean After Use
Rinse tools or surfaces exposed to BKC to prevent harmful residue.
Keep Away from Feed
Avoid BKC contamination of food or animal feed. Be sure to clean the feeding area after application to avoid negative impacts on animal health.
Limited Use in Certain Conditions
Caution should be exercised when using BKC on surfaces or tools that frequently come into direct contact with animals. Ensure the BKC is completely dry or rinsed before reuse to avoid direct contact with animals, which could cause irritation or poisoning.
Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC) Supplier in Indonesia
Maha is the official supplier of Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC) for disinfectant applications in livestock sanitation and equipment hygiene. Contact us for more information!