5-Bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane (CAS 30007-47-7) protects aqueous systems – cosmetics, personal care and industrial products – against bacterial spoilage. This guide explains how it preserves formulations, typical use levels and co-preservation strategy.
1. How It Preserves
The bromo-nitro group slowly generates antimicrobial species that inhibit bacterial enzymes and metabolism. Because release is gradual, low concentrations maintain protection over the product lifetime without the spike-and-decay pattern of some fast-release biocides.
2. Activity Profile
- Broad-spectrum: effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
- Works in both leave-on and rinse-off cosmetics where approved.
- Compatible with typical anionic, non-ionic and amphoteric surfactant systems.
3. Typical Use and Co-preservation
| System | Typical level | Co-preservatives |
|---|---|---|
| Shampoo / body wash | 0.02-0.1% | Phenoxyethanol, isothiazolinones |
| Creams / lotions | 0.02-0.05% | Caprylyl glycol, sorbates |
| Paints / dispersions | 0.05-0.2% | Isothiazolinone blends |
| Metalworking fluids | 0.05-0.2% | Formaldehyde-releaser boosters |
4. Formulation Checklist
- Check regulatory allowance for the region and application.
- Validate compatibility at your pH and with your surfactant/emulsifier system.
- Run challenge testing (e.g. preservative efficacy test) at the chosen level.
- Confirm free formaldehyde stays within your claim limit (≤5 ppm spec).
5. FAQ
Can it replace phenoxyethanol?
Not 1:1 – it has different activity and regulatory standing; many formulators use them together for broad-spectrum cover.
Is it a formaldehyde releaser?
The grade controls free formaldehyde to ≤5 ppm; check the regional definition and label requirements for your market.
6. References and Further Reading
- Supplier COA and MSDS; regional preservative lists.
This article is published for industrial and technical reference by PolyblueChem. Verify against the supplier’s COA and applicable regulations.
See our 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane chemistry guide. PolyblueChem supplies 5-bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane (CAS 30007-47-7) – contact us for specifications and quotations.