Glyoxylic acid

Glyoxylic acid (CAS 298-12-4), also known as α-ketoacetic acid, is a bifunctional organic acid that serves as a reactive intermediate and chelating agent across chemical manufacturing and formulation industries. Its aldehyde and carboxylic acid groups make it a valued building block for synthesizing active ingredients, rather than a commodity acid used purely for pH adjustment in industrial processes.

In pharmaceuticals, it functions as a key intermediate in the synthesis of amino acids, including D-phenylglycine and D-4-hydroxyphenylglycine, which are used in semi-synthetic penicillin and cephalosporin production. Personal care formulators use it as the active agent in hair straightening treatments, where it reacts with keratin to restructure hair bonds without the need for formaldehyde or harsh chemicals.

In water treatment, its chelating capacity allows it to sequester metal ions, supporting scale inhibition and corrosion control in industrial systems. Food-grade applications include use as a pH regulator. It also serves as a precursor in flavor compound synthesis. Glyoxylic acid is supplied primarily as a 50% aqueous solution, the standard commercial form for most industrial and formulation applications.

Technical and purified grades are available to meet the requirements of pharmaceutical intermediate synthesis and cosmetic manufacturing. Solid monohydrate form is also available for specific applications. These solid forms are ideal for applications requiring precise dosing or reduced water content. Our material meets rigorous quality standards to ensure consistency across all manufacturing batches and client specifications.