[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, mechanism of action of glutaraldehyde

Glutaraldehyde Properties

Glutaraldehyde (chemical formula: C5H8O2) is a colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid with a pungent odor. It has a molecular weight of 100.12g/mol, a boiling point of about 187°C, a density of 1.06g/cm³, and is soluble in water and ethanol. Because of its good stability and reactivity, glutaraldehyde is widely used in many chemical fields. The behavior of glutaraldehyde in aqueous solution is particularly important. It usually exists as a 50% concentration solution. This high concentration aqueous solution is stable under acidic conditions, but will rapidly polymerize in an alkaline environment.

Glutaraldehyde Uses

One of the most widespread uses of glutaraldehyde is as a disinfectant and germicide. Because of its powerful bactericidal ability, glutaraldehyde is widely used in the disinfection of medical instruments, surgical instruments, endoscopes and other equipment. Glutaraldehyde is also used in the leather and textile industries as a tanning agent to improve the durability and elasticity of leather. In the chemical industry, glutaraldehyde is used as a cross-linking agent for the manufacture of proteins and polymers to improve the physical and chemical properties of materials. In biochemical research, glutaraldehyde is often used to fix tissues and cells, maintain the morphological structure of samples, and for microscopic observation.

Glutaraldehyde upstream and downstream raw materials

In the production of glutaraldehyde, the key raw materials include n-valeraldehyde, chlorine gas and water. n-Valeraldehyde is a direct precursor for the production of glutaraldehyde and can be prepared by oxidation of n-pentanol. Chlorine gas is used as a catalyst in the reaction to promote the further oxidation of n-valeraldehyde. The production process also requires the use of water to prepare the glutaraldehyde product in the form of an aqueous solution.

The downstream products of glutaraldehyde mainly include various disinfectants, fungicides, tanning agents and crosslinking agents. Disinfectants and fungicides are widely used in medical, health, food processing and other fields to ensure the health and safety of the environment and products. Tanning agents are mainly used in the leather industry to improve the quality and durability of leather products. Glutaraldehyde as a cross-linking agent plays an important role in the preparation of polymers and biomaterials, significantly improving the properties of materials.

Glutaraldehyde storage method

Because glutaraldehyde is irritating and corrosive, appropriate measures need to be taken to ensure safety during storage. Glutaraldehyde should be stored in a closed, corrosion-resistant container, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and high temperature environment. The storage temperature is preferably maintained between 15-25°C to prevent degradation and volatilization.

Glutaraldehyde needs to be carefully protected from contact with strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents and strong acidic or alkaline substances during storage, because these substances may cause chemical reactions, resulting in product quality degradation or even danger. In order to ensure safety, the storage area should be equipped with emergency eyewash equipment and sufficient ventilation equipment to quickly deal with leaks or other unexpected situations.

Environmental Protection and Safety

When using and handling glutaraldehyde, the relevant safety regulations and environmental regulations must be strictly observed. Glutaraldehyde has certain toxicity, and exposure to high concentrations of glutaraldehyde solution may cause harm to human health, including skin irritation, respiratory tract irritation and eye damage. Therefore, operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, protective glasses and masks.

Discarded glutaraldehyde and its solution shall be treated in accordance with hazardous waste treatment regulations and shall not be discharged at will to avoid pollution to the environment. Usually, glutaraldehyde waste liquid can be treated by neutralization, dilution and biodegradation to ensure that it meets environmental standards before discharge.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material and product, glutaraldehyde has a wide range of applications and important market value. Its excellent disinfection, sterilization and crosslinking properties make it indispensable in the fields of medical, leather, chemical and biological research. Considering its chemical nature and potential health risks, safety and environmental regulations must be strictly followed during production, storage and use to ensure product safety and environmental sustainability. With the advancement of technology and the expansion of application fields, the market demand for glutaraldehyde is expected to continue to grow, bringing more development opportunities to related industries.