Glyoxylic acid

Glyoxylic acid (CAS 298-12-4, EC 206-058-5), also known as oxoacetic acid and glyoxalic acid, is a short-chain organic acid carrying both aldehyde and carboxylic acid functional groups. This dual reactivity makes it chemically distinct from simple monocarboxylic acids and drives its utility across multiple industrial sectors.

In water treatment, glyoxylic acid functions as a chelating agent, binding calcium and heavy metal ions to prevent scale formation and inhibit microbial growth simultaneously. In personal care formulations, it acts as a pH buffer and skin conditioner, where its aldehyde group participates in controlled crosslinking reactions with hair keratin proteins.

Glyoxylic acid is supplied as a clear aqueous solution, typically at 50% concentration, and is available in REACH-compliant grades for the European market. It carries no E-code designation. Pharmaceutical and food-contact grades conforming to FCC or Ph.Eur. standards can be sourced depending on application requirements. Standard packaging includes IBC containers and drums.