Glutaraldehyde, with the chemical formula C5H8O2, is a widely used compound. Glutaraldehyde was first synthesized in the early 1950s when researchers were searching for an effective sterilant and fixative for biological specimens. Its discovery marked a major advancement in chemical sterilization and preservation technology. Glutaraldehyde is an aliphatic dialdehyde consisting of a five-carbon chain with two aldehyde (-CHO) functional groups at the 1 and 5 positions. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor. Glutaraldehyde is soluble in water and many organic solvents and has good miscibility in aqueous solutions.
Glutaraldehyde is widely used as a sterilant for medical devices and equipment due to its broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. It effectively crosslinks proteins and disrupts cellular structures, inactivating microorganisms and preventing their proliferation.
In healthcare settings, glutaraldehyde solutions are used as high-level disinfectants for endoscopes, surgical instruments, and other heat-sensitive medical devices. These solutions ensure effective sterilization without compromising the integrity of delicate instruments.
In addition to healthcare, glutaraldehyde is used in a variety of industrial processes, including water treatment, petroleum production, and papermaking. It is used as a biocide in cooling water systems, a cross-linking agent in leather tanning, and a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products.
Glutaraldehyde is a valuable intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and polymers. It participates in reactions to form imines, acetals, and other functional derivatives that aid in the production of a variety of chemical compounds.
Glutaraldehyde is toxic and irritates the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon direct contact or inhalation. When handling concentrated solutions, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, should be worn. Used glutaraldehyde solutions require special handling procedures due to their biocidal properties. Prior to disposal, efforts should be made to neutralize or degrade residual glutaraldehyde to minimize environmental impact.
Brand: Soarwin
CAS No.:111-30-8
EC Number: 203-856-5
Molecular Formula: C5H8O2
Density : 1.058 g/mL at 20 °C
Melting point : -15 °C
Boiling point: 100 °C
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