Benzalkonium chloride is an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium compound and a cationic surfactant. It serves as a broad-spectrum biocide and disinfectant in sanitiser and disinfectant formulations. It also acts as a preservative in personal-care products. It is a clear colourless to pale yellow viscous liquid. Packaging formats include 200 kg plastic drums and intermediate bulk containers with a 1000 kg capacity. Cosmetic use is subject to the applicable cosmetic-ingredient conditions. Use in biocidal products depends on the applicable product authorisation.