Polyhexamethylene Guanidine hydrochloride (PHMG) CAS 57028-96-3

Introduction to PHMG

Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Hydrochloride is a cationic polymeric antimicrobial built on repeating hexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride units. Positively charged guanidine groups adsorb onto negatively charged microbial cell membranes, disrupting membrane structure and inhibiting cellular function. It delivers broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi and algae, with high thermal stability and low bioaccumulation potential.

The compound is highly soluble in water and forms stable aqueous solutions. It functions as a non-oxidizing biocide across industrial, institutional and daily chemical applications, with residual antimicrobial effect and low corrosivity to most system materials.

PHMG Chemical & Physical Properties

Applications of PHMG

Water treatment biocide: Used as a non-oxidizing microbial control agent in cooling towers, circulating water systems and reverse osmosis facilities. It suppresses bacteria, algae and biofilm buildup, maintaining heat transfer efficiency and reducing microbially influenced corrosion.

Industrial disinfection and preservation: Applied in facility sanitation, HVAC systems and oilfield operations for surface and fluid disinfection. It also preserves industrial fluids, cutting emulsions and polymer dispersions against microbial spoilage.

Textile and paper antimicrobial: Imparts durable antimicrobial properties to textiles, nonwovens and paper products. It inhibits bacterial and fungal growth on finished goods and prevents mildew degradation during storage.

Daily chemical preservatives: Incorporated into disinfectant wipes, hard surface cleaners and household hygiene products as a mild antimicrobial active ingredient and formulation preservative.

Storage & Safety Precautions for PHMG

• Store in tightly sealed containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouses. Keep separated from strong oxidizing agents and highly alkaline materials to avoid activity degradation.
• Wear safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves during bulk handling. Avoid direct eye contact and prolonged skin exposure. Rinse thoroughly with water in case of contact.
• Liquid grades are non-flammable. Store away from food, feed and pharmaceutical materials to prevent cross-contamination.

PHMG FAQ

Q: How does Polyhexamethylene Guanidine Hydrochloride (PHMG) work as a biocide?

A: Cationic guanidine groups bind to microbial membranes, disrupting structure and function to control bacteria, fungi and algae effectively.

Q: What are the core applications of PHMG?

A: Water treatment biocontrol, industrial disinfection, textile antimicrobial finishing, paper preservation and daily hygiene products.

Q: How should PHMG be stored to maintain activity?

A: Store sealed in cool dry conditions. Keep away from strong oxidizers and high alkalinity to preserve biocidal efficacy.