Glyoxylic acid
Glyoxylic Acid: A Comprehensive Guide
Glyoxylic acid (C2H2O3) is an organic compound widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. This versatile compound serves as a key intermediate in various chemical reactions.
Product Specifications
Key Parameters:
- Chemical Formula: C2H2O3
- Molecular Weight: 74.04 g/mol
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
- Purity: ≥98%
- Melting Point: -93°C
- Boiling Point: 111°C
- Density: 1.384 g/cm3
- Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohol, and ether
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 298-12-4 |
| EC Number | 206-058-5 |
| Flash Point | 104°C |
| Vapor Pressure | 14.5 mmHg at 25°C |
| pH Value | 1-2 (50% aqueous solution) |
| Storage Temperature | 2-8°C |
FAQ about Glyoxylic Acid
Q: What are the main applications of Glyoxylic acid?
A: Glyoxylic acid has diverse applications including: pharmaceutical intermediates (especially for allantoin production), cosmetics (hair straightening formulations), textile industry (as a reducing agent), and as a precursor for various organic compounds. In personal care, it's particularly valued for its hair-smoothing properties while being milder than traditional formaldehyde-based products.
Q: How should Glyoxylic acid be stored safely?
A: Glyoxylic acid should be stored in a cool (2-8°C), well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Containers must be tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and oxidation. It should be kept separate from strong bases, oxidizers, and reducing agents. For long-term storage, nitrogen blankets are recommended to maintain product stability.
Q: What safety precautions should be taken when handling Glyoxylic acid?
A: Always wear appropriate PPE including chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Work in a fume hood when handling concentrated solutions. In case of skin contact, immediately wash with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye exposure, rinse continuously with water and seek medical attention. The compound may cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon exposure.
Additional Technical Information
Glyoxylic acid typically comes in two commercial forms: as a 50% aqueous solution or in crystalline form. The aqueous solution offers easier handling for many industrial applications, while the crystalline form provides higher concentration for specific uses.
In chemical synthesis, Glyoxylic acid serves as a valuable building block due to its two functional groups (aldehyde and carboxyl), enabling diverse reactions. Its ability to participate in both nucleophilic and electrophilic reactions makes it particularly versatile for organic synthesis.
Quality Control Parameters
| Test | Specification | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (HPLC) | ≥98.0% | USP |
| Water Content | ≤1.0% | Karl Fischer |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | USP |
| Heavy Metals | ≤10 ppm | ICP-MS |
| Oxalic Acid Content | ≤1.0% | Titration |
For professional use of Glyoxylic acid, it's recommended to conduct a small-scale trial before full implementation in your process, especially when using it in new applications. The compound's reactivity may vary depending on pH, temperature, and other process parameters.