Glyoxal

Glyoxal (CAS 107-22-2), also known as oxal, is a dialdehyde compound used industrially as a crosslinking agent, biocide, and chemical intermediate across a broad range of manufacturing sectors. Its reactivity with hydroxyl, amine, and amide groups makes it a practical choice for insolubilizing and stabilizing substrates in both wet and dry processing environments.

In textile and paper manufacturing, this compound crosslinks cellulose fibers to impart wrinkle resistance and wet strength to finished goods. Leather processors use it as a tanning auxiliary and fixative. These applications improve fiber structure and dimensional stability in hides. Water treatment formulators incorporate it as a biocide active for controlling microbial growth in industrial cooling systems.

In printing and packaging, it functions as a binder crosslinker in coating formulations, improving water resistance and ink adhesion on coated paper and board substrates. The product is commercially supplied as an aqueous solution, most commonly at 40% concentration, though 30% grades are also available for specific industrial applications.

Technical grade is the standard for industrial use in textiles, paper, and water treatment. Pharmaceutical and specialty grades with tighter purity specifications are available for regulated applications.