Behentrimonium Chloride

CAS Number:

17301-53-0

Chemical / INCI Name:

Behentrimonium Chloride

Molecular Formula:

C25H54ClN

Molecular Weight:

~404.16 g/mol

Trade Names:

Miconium™ BTAC80 (Miwon), TEQUART BTAC 80 (Kale Care), AccessQUAT BTAC80 (Access Ingredients), FENTACARE® BTMAC I 80 (Syensqo)

Synonyms:

Docosyltrimethylammonium chloride, Behenyltrimethylammonium Chloride, C22-Alkyltrimethylammonium Chloride, N,N,N-Trimethyl-1-Docosanaminium Chloride .

Uses:

BTAC 80 is a cationic quaternary ammonium compound (a "quat") with an 80% active content. It is a waxy substance derived from sources like colza (canola) oil and is a premier conditioning agent in personal care

· Hair Care: The primary use is as a high-performance conditioning agent in rinse-off conditioners, hair masks, treatments, and shampoos. It provides exceptional detangling, antistatic properties (frizz reduction), and leaves hair feeling soft and manageable .

· Mechanism: Its cationic (positively charged) nature allows it to bind to the anionic (negatively charged) protein structure of damaged hair. It is reported to not just coat but also penetrate and substantiate the hair shaft, helping to rebuild and restore hair .

· Other Applications: Functions as an emulsifier and preservative in creams, lotions, and other personal care formulations .

Origin:

BTAC 80 is a semi-synthetic compound. It is manufactured by reacting long-chain fatty alcohols (derived from natural oils like colza or rapeseed oil) with trimethylamine, followed by quaternization .

What does BTAC 80 do in a formulation?

Its primary functions are:

  • Antistatic Agent: Reduces static electricity and frizz .
  • Hair Conditioning Agent: Provides slip, detangling, and softness, especially effective for coarse hair
  • Surfactant (Cationic) & Emulsifier: Helps stabilize emulsions .
  • Preservative: Exhibits antimicrobial properties.

Safety Profile:

· Safety Assessment: Considered safe for use in cosmetics within regulated concentration limits. The EU allows up to 5.0% in rinse-off hair products and up to 3.0% in leave-on hair products .

· Irritation & Toxicity: In its concentrated form (80%), it is a known irritant. GHS classifications include H315 (Causes skin irritation) and H318 (Causes serious eye damage) . It is considered toxic at concentrations of 0.1% and higher in its raw form . However, finished products are formulated to be safe.

· Environmental Hazard: May be hazardous to aquatic life with long-lasting effects .

· Regulatory: Listed in CosIng (Europe) and IECIC (China) .

Technical profile:

PropertyValues
AppearanceWhite to off-white pastilles, pellets, flakes, or powder
Active Content80% (typical range 79-81%)
Solvent ContentMay contain ~10% Isopropyl Alcohol as a formulation aid
pH (1-2% solution)3.5 - 8.0 (varies by supplier)
Melting PointNeeds heating to ~70-85°C to dissolve in water or oil
SolubilitySoluble in hot water and hot oils. Tends not to dissolve in cold water, allowing it to remain on the hair
Recommended Use Level0.5% - 5.0% in hair care formulations