Quick Search
Polyhexanide, also known as Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB), is a polymeric antimicrobial agent widely used for its broad-spectrum efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Polyhexanide is commonly used in healthcare, personal care, and industrial applications as a disinfectant, preservative, and antiseptic.
Polyhexanide is known for its effectiveness at low concentrations, making it a preferred choice in wound care, eye care solutions, and surface disinfection.
CAS Number: 27083-27-8
EC Number: 608-723-9
Molecular Formula: (C8H18N6)n (repeating polymeric unit)
Molecular Weight: Variable (polymeric)
Synonyms: Polyhexamethylene Biguanide, PHMB, Polyhexanide, Antimicrobial Polyhexamethylene Biguanide, Polymeric Biguanide, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Biguanide Polymer
APPLICATIONS
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is extensively used in wound care products, including wound dressings and antiseptic solutions, where it provides effective antimicrobial protection without cytotoxicity to human cells.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is applied in contact lens solutions, where it acts as a disinfectant, effectively eliminating bacteria and fungi to ensure safe lens wear.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is used in eye care solutions for its gentle yet effective antimicrobial action, helping to prevent eye infections and maintain ocular health.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is a key ingredient in skin cleansers and antiseptic sprays, providing microbial control and reducing the risk of infection in medical and personal care settings.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is utilized in hospital disinfectants and surface sanitizers, where it provides broad-spectrum protection on non-porous surfaces against pathogens, including drug-resistant bacteria.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is found in veterinary care products, where it serves as a disinfectant and antiseptic, ensuring safe treatment of animals without harmful effects.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is used in the food industry as a disinfectant for equipment, tools, and surfaces, helping to maintain hygienic standards and prevent foodborne illnesses.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is incorporated into industrial water treatment solutions, where it prevents bacterial and algal growth in cooling towers and water storage systems.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is applied in textile processing, where it provides durable antimicrobial protection to fabrics, making it suitable for medical textiles, uniforms, and sportswear.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is used in personal care products, such as deodorants and body washes, where it offers antimicrobial benefits and helps control body odor.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is an essential component in hand sanitizers, where it provides effective germ-killing action while being less irritating than alcohol-based formulations.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is utilized in sanitizing wipes, providing broad-spectrum protection against bacteria and viruses for personal and household use.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is applied in household disinfectants and cleaning agents, where it offers long-lasting antimicrobial efficacy on treated surfaces.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is used in coatings and films for antimicrobial protection, preventing microbial growth in environments such as hospitals, schools, and public spaces.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is found in dental rinses and mouthwashes, where it helps reduce bacterial load, preventing plaque buildup and gum disease.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is employed in agricultural disinfectants, where it sanitizes equipment and facilities, reducing disease transmission among livestock.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is used in aquaculture to control microbial contamination, ensuring water quality and preventing disease in fish farming environments.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is utilized in wound irrigation solutions, providing safe and effective cleansing of wounds to prevent infection and support healing.
DESCRIPTION
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is a cationic polymer known for its strong antimicrobial properties, effective at low concentrations against a broad spectrum of microorganisms.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is particularly effective in healthcare settings, where it is used in wound care, disinfection, and antiseptic products due to its low cytotoxicity and high efficacy.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) has a unique structure that binds to microbial cell membranes, leading to their disruption and cell death, making it highly effective in controlling microbial growth.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is also used in personal care and household products, providing long-lasting antimicrobial protection on treated surfaces and skin.
The polymeric nature of Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) enables it to adhere to surfaces, providing persistent antimicrobial action even after rinsing.
Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is biodegradable and non-irritating at typical use levels, making it safe for use in a variety of formulations.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: (C8H18N6)n (polymeric structure)
Molecular Weight: Variable (polymeric)
Common Name: Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide)
Appearance: Clear to pale yellow liquid (solution) or white solid (pure form)
Density: 1.01-1.02 g/cm³ (solution)
Boiling Point: N/A
Melting Point: N/A
Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in organic solvents
Flash Point: >100°C (solution)
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong oxidizing agents
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
Storage Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Vapor Pressure: Low
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
If Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.
Eye Contact:
In case of eye contact, flush the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.
Ingestion:
If Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) is ingested, do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel.
Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote.
Provide supportive care.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety goggles when handling large quantities of Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide).
Use in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of vapors.
Ventilation:
Ensure adequate ventilation when handling large amounts of Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) to control airborne concentrations below occupational exposure limits.
Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide).
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release and minimize exposure.
Absorb with inert material (e.g., sand, vermiculite) and collect for disposal.
Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.
Storage:
Store Polyhexanide (Polyhexamethylene Biguanide) in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
Store away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid inhalation of vapors and direct contact with skin and eyes.
Use explosion-proof equipment in areas where vapors may be present.
