o-Phthalaldehyde

o-Phthalaldehyde (CAS 643-79-8) is an aromatic dialdehyde commonly abbreviated as OPA or OPTA, also referred to as phthaldialdehyde and phthalic aldehyde. It carries no assigned E-code. The compound is classified under HS code 29122900 and belongs to the aldehyde family of reactive organic intermediates.

In pharmaceutical and healthcare settings, OPA functions as a high-level disinfectant, reacting rapidly with microbial proteins and amino acids to disrupt cellular function. In polymer chemistry, its bifunctional aldehyde groups enable crosslinking and polymerization initiation. Food and personal care formulators also employ it as a fragrance and flavorant precursor at controlled concentrations.

OPA is available as a light yellow powder in technical and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with compliance traceable to REACH registration requirements applicable in the EU. Procurement teams should confirm grade suitability against Ph.Eur. or FCC standards depending on end-use application. Standard packaging formats for B2B supply include kilogram and multi-kilogram containers.