Glutaraldehyde

Glutaraldehyde (CAS 111-30-8) is a five-carbon dialdehyde supplied as an aqueous solution, commercially known under trade names including Hospex, Aldesan, Sonacide, and Glutaral. It carries no E-code designation and is classified under HS code 29121990. It functions through its two reactive aldehyde groups, which drive its primary industrial utility.

In water treatment, glutaraldehyde acts as a broad-spectrum biocide by cross-linking proteins in microbial cell walls, disrupting cellular function and preventing biofilm formation in cooling towers and oilfield systems. In biotechnology and leather processing, those same cross-linking reactions fix tissue samples and tan hides by forming stable covalent bonds between collagen fibers.

Glutaraldehyde is available in aqueous solutions of varying concentrations, typically 25% and 50% w/w, and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Procurement should confirm biocidal product compliance under BPR (EU) 528/2012 for relevant end uses. Packaging formats commonly include drums and intermediate bulk containers.