Glyoxylic Acid
Oxoacetic acid, GA, Glyoxalic acid, Formylformic acid.
- CAS
- 298-12-4
- EC
- 206-058-5
- Sectors
- Personal Care & Cosmetics, Agriculture, Food & Nutrition
Glyoxylic Acid (CAS 298-12-4) is a highly reactive organic intermediate that carries both aldehyde and carboxylic acid groups and is typically supplied as a 50% aqueous solution, a clear yellow liquid used mainly as a building block for agrochemicals, vanillin and formaldehyde-free hair-straightening products. It is typically supplied as a 50% Aqueous Solution for industrial synthesis and high-performance formulation.
This Technical Grade acid is a vital building block for agrochemicals and flavors like vanillin. Its bifunctional nature allows for complex condensation reactions in High-Purity manufacturing environments.
In cosmetics, it is utilized as a Cosmetic Grade pH regulator and formaldehyde-free hair-straightening agent. It provides a safer alternative for professional salon products and specialty hair treatments.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C2H2O3 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 74.04 g/mol |
| Appearance | clear yellow solution |
| Form | clear liquid |
| Color | Colorless to Light orange to Yellow |
| Melting point | 98 °C |
| Boiling point | 111 °C |
| Density | 1.42 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Water solubility | miscible |
| Flash point | 111°C |
| pH | 0.3 (19.5°C in H2O) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 29183000 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade, Cosmetic Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Glyoxylic Acid
Applications
- Agrochemical Synthesis: Used as a vital intermediate in the production of herbicides and plant growth regulators.
- Personal Care Formulation: Acts as an effective cross-linking agent in semi-permanent hair straightening treatments.
- Flavor & Fragrance Production: Serves as a primary precursor for the industrial synthesis of vanillin and ethylvanillin.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Corrosive; causes Severe Skin Burns and Eye Damage. Handle with Chemical-Resistant Gloves, Safety Goggles, and Protective Clothing at all times.
Packaging
Supplied in 250 kg Plastic Drums, 1250 kg IBC Tanks, or bulk ISO containers.