GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, also called glutaraldehyde, glutaral or pentanedial (CAS No 111-30-8, C5H8O2), is a saturated five-carbon dialdehyde supplied as clear, colourless aqueous solutions (typically 25 % or 50 %) and used as a broad-spectrum biocide, high-level disinfectant and cold sterilant, protein crosslinker, tissue fixative and tanning agent in medicine, laboratories, water treatment, oil and gas, leather, paper and animal hygiene.
Glutaraldehyde is valued because it kills bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi and viruses, and with long contact times also bacterial spores, while remaining non-corrosive to most metals, rubber and plastics used in medical instruments, it also crosslinks proteins more efficiently than most monoaldehydes.
Glutaral works through its two reactive aldehyde groups, which bind to amino groups of proteins (for example the lysine residues of cell-wall and enzyme proteins) and to other nucleophilic groups, forming crosslinks that rigidify and inactivate microbial cells and stabilise biological tissue.

CAS No: 111-30-8
EC No: 203-856-5
Molecular formula: C5H8O2
Molecular weight: 100.12 g/mol
EU Index No: 605-022-00-X
Commercial form: Aqueous solutions, typically 25 % or 50 %
Appearance: Clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odour
Melting point (pure substance): approx. -14 °C
Boiling point (pure substance): approx. 187–189 °C (with decomposition)
Water solubility: Miscible

COMMON PRODUCT & CHEMICAL NAMES OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE:

Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, Glutaraldehyde, Glutaral, Gluteraldehyde, Pentanedial, 1,5-Pentanedial, Pentane-1,5-dial, Glutaric dialdehyde, Glutaric acid dialdehyde, Glutaric aldehyde, Glutardialdehyde, Glutaraldehyd, 1,3-Diformylpropane, Trimethylene aldehyde, GA, GDA, GTA, Glutaralum, Glutaraldehyde solution 25 %, Glutaraldehyde solution 50 %, Cidex, Sonacide, Ucarcide, Aldesan, Alhydex, Hospex, Glutarol

Glutaral is the INN, pharmacopoeia and INCI name of Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, glutaraldehyde is the common chemical and trade name, and pentanedial is the IUPAC name, describing a five-carbon chain (pentane) with an aldehyde group at each end (-dial). The older name trimethylene aldehyde reflects the three CH2 groups between the two aldehyde carbons. GA, GDA and GTA are abbreviations used in laboratories and industry.
Cidex, Sonacide, Ucarcide, Aldesan, Alhydex, Hospex and Glutarol are trade names of disinfectants, industrial biocides or pharmaceutical solutions based on Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, they are ready-to-use or concentrated products with their own concentration, buffer and labelling, not synonyms for the pure substance. Pentanedial should not be confused with glutaric acid (the corresponding dicarboxylic acid), with glyoxal (a two-carbon dialdehyde) or with ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA), an aromatic dialdehyde used as an alternative high-level disinfectant.

WHAT IS GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE?

The dialdehyde is one of the most widely used aldehyde biocides. In hospitals and dental practices, buffered Glutaral Glutaraldehyde solutions of about 2 % have long been used for high-level disinfection and cold sterilisation of heat-sensitive instruments such as endoscopes. Outside medicine, most Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is consumed industrially: as a biocide in oilfield water and pipelines, in cooling and process water, in paper mills, in leather tanning, for the disinfection of animal houses and as a crosslinking agent and fixative.
Pure Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is not stable enough for normal storage, because its aldehyde groups react with each other. The article of commerce is therefore an aqueous solution, usually 50 % for industrial use and 25 % or lower for laboratories and formulators. Small quantities of electron-microscopy grade Glutaral Glutaraldehyde are also supplied in sealed ampoules under inert gas.

Glutaraldehyde has a history going back more than a century. It was described as "trimethylene aldehyde" in 1908, when it was prepared by oxidation of 1,5-pentanediol. Its use as a tissue fixative for electron microscopy became established in the early 1960s, and buffered alkaline Glutaral Glutaraldehyde disinfectants followed shortly afterwards.

Typical areas where Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is used: medical and dental instrument disinfection, endoscope reprocessing, laboratory fixation of cells and tissues, electron microscopy, enzyme immobilisation, vaccine toxoid preparation, bioprosthetic tissue fixation, oil and gas production water, hydraulic fracturing fluids, pipelines, cooling towers, paper and board production, leather tanning, poultry and livestock house disinfection, sugar mills, in-can preservation of technical products, embalming fluids, X-ray film processing and the treatment of warts and hyperhidrosis.

Glutaral is an aliphatic dialdehyde with the structure OHC-CH2-CH2-CH2-CHO, also written as (CH2)3(CHO)2. It is the dialdehyde corresponding to glutaric acid. As a small, water-miscible molecule with two reactive ends, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde can bridge two amino groups that are about 5–7 Å apart, which is why it is a classic homobifunctional crosslinker in biochemistry.
Pentanedial does not occur in nature in any relevant amount. Industrially it is mainly produced by the pyran route: acrolein reacts with a vinyl ether (for example methyl or ethyl vinyl ether) in a Diels–Alder reaction to give a 2-alkoxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran, which is then hydrolysed to Glutaral Glutaraldehyde. Catalytic oxidation of cyclopentene with hydrogen peroxide over tungsten-based catalysts is another route that has been developed and used. The crude product is purified and adjusted with water to the required concentration.

CAS NO, EC / EINECS NO AND CHEMICAL IDENTIFICATION OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Product name: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde
IUPAC name: Pentanedial
INN / INCI name: Glutaral
CAS No: 111-30-8
EC / EINECS No: 203-856-5
EU Index No (CLP Annex VI): 605-022-00-X
Molecular formula: C5H8O2
Molecular weight: 100.12 g/mol
SMILES: O=CCCCC=O
InChIKey: SXRSQZLOMIGNAQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
PubChem CID: 3485
Chemical class: Aliphatic dialdehyde
Main functions: Biocide, disinfectant, cold sterilant, crosslinking agent, fixative, tanning agent, preservative

GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE IN WATER: WHAT IS REALLY IN THE DRUM?

An aqueous solution of Glutaral Glutaraldehyde does not simply contain free dialdehyde molecules. In water, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde exists as an equilibrium of several species:
- free (monomeric) dialdehyde
- mono- and dihydrates (gem-diols), formed by addition of water to the aldehyde groups
- a cyclic hemiacetal (a six-membered ring formed from the hydrate)
- small amounts of oligomers and aldol condensation products

The pH controls how these species behave. In slightly acidic solution (about pH 3–5), Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is stable for long periods, which is why commercial concentrates are supplied acidic. In alkaline solution (about pH 7.5–8.5), Glutaral Glutaraldehyde becomes much more biocidal, because the aldehyde groups react faster with proteins, but at the same time it slowly polymerises by aldol condensation into alpha,beta-unsaturated oligomers. Alkaline solutions therefore lose activity over time and turn yellowish.
This chemistry explains the typical "activation" step of medical disinfectants: an acidic, stable Glutaral Glutaraldehyde solution is mixed with an alkaline activator (for example a bicarbonate buffer) just before use, and the activated solution then has a limited use life, typically about 14 to 28 days depending on the product.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

PURE SUBSTANCE (LITERATURE VALUES):
Molecular weight: 100.12 g/mol
Physical state: Liquid, colourless, oily
Odour: Pungent, characteristic aldehyde odour (odour threshold reported around 0.04 ppm)
Melting point: approx. -14 °C
Boiling point: approx. 187–189 °C (decomposes)
Density: approx. 1.06 g/cm³
Solubility: Miscible with water, soluble in ethanol and many organic solvents
Log Pow: approx. -0.36 (23 °C, measured on 50 % solution)
Vapour density: approx. 3.4 (air = 1)

AQUEOUS SOLUTION, APPROX. 25 % (EXAMPLE: LABORATORY GRADE, SUPPLIER SDS):
Appearance: Colourless liquid
Melting point: approx. -10 °C
Boiling point: approx. 101 °C (1,013 hPa)
pH: approx. 2.9
Density: approx. 1.06 g/cm³
Water solubility: Soluble
Flash point: No data available for the aqueous solution

AQUEOUS SOLUTION, APPROX. 50 % (TYPICAL INDUSTRIAL GRADE):
Assay: approx. 50 %
Appearance: Clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid
pH: typically approx. 3–5
Specific gravity (20/20 °C): approx. 1.12–1.13
Boiling point: approx. 100 °C (water boils first)

Stability: Stable under normal conditions in acidic solution, air- and light-sensitive, polymerises in alkaline solution and on intense heating.
Incompatible materials: Strong acids, strong bases, strong oxidising agents, amines, ammonia and other primary amine compounds (react with the aldehyde groups).

Exact specification values (assay, colour, acidity, methanol content, iron, residue on evaporation) depend on the grade and producer, the specification of the supplied Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is available on request from Ataman Kimya.

HOW GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE KILLS MICROORGANISMS AND CROSSLINKS PROTEINS

The biocidal activity of Glutaral Glutaraldehyde starts at the outer layers of the cell. The aldehyde groups react with free amino groups of proteins in the cell wall, outer membrane or spore coat, forming Schiff bases (imines) and more complex adducts. Because each molecule carries two aldehyde groups, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde crosslinks neighbouring proteins. The cell surface is sealed, transport systems and enzymes are blocked, and the cell can no longer function or divide. The same reaction with nucleic acids and internal proteins completes the inactivation.
Activity spectrum: vegetative Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, mycobacteria, fungi and yeasts, enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Bacterial spores are more resistant, a sporicidal effect requires alkaline activated solutions and long contact times, often several hours. Some mycobacteria have shown reduced susceptibility to Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, which is one reason why alternatives such as ortho-phthalaldehyde and peracetic acid are also used in endoscope reprocessing.
Fixation and tanning: in tissue, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde crosslinks collagen and other proteins, preserving fine structure for microscopy and making leather or biological tissue more resistant to heat, enzymes and microbes.

GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE IN MEDICAL, DENTAL AND LABORATORY USE

HIGH-LEVEL DISINFECTION AND COLD STERILISATION
Buffered solutions containing about 2 % Glutaral Glutaraldehyde (and in some products higher concentrations) are used to reprocess heat-sensitive semi-critical devices such as flexible endoscopes, respiratory therapy equipment and dental instruments. In general guidance, high-level disinfection is achieved with contact times of about 20 minutes or longer at room temperature, while sterilisation by immersion requires much longer exposure, typically around 10 hours. The exact conditions are those approved for the specific product.
Materials compatibility is an important advantage: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde does not corrode most metals and does not damage the lenses, cements and plastics of endoscopes. Thorough rinsing after disinfection is essential, because residues can irritate patients' mucous membranes.

LABORATORY AND MICROSCOPY
The dialdehyde is the standard primary fixative for transmission and scanning electron microscopy, often at about 2–3 % in phosphate or cacodylate buffer, sometimes combined with formaldehyde, and followed by post-fixation with osmium tetroxide. It is also used to crosslink proteins to carriers, to immobilise enzymes, to prepare protein conjugates and to stabilise protein crystals.

PHARMACEUTICAL AND BIOMEDICAL
Glutaraldehyde is used to detoxify bacterial toxins in the production of toxoid vaccine components, to fix animal tissue (for example porcine valves or bovine pericardium) for bioprosthetic heart valves, and in dermatology: solutions of about 10 % are used for plantar warts, and diluted solutions under medical supervision for hyperhidrosis of hands and feet.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Oil and gas: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is one of the most important biocides in oilfield water systems. It controls sulphate-reducing bacteria and other microbes that cause souring (H2S formation), biofouling and microbiologically influenced corrosion in injection water, hydraulic fracturing fluids, pipelines and storage tanks. It is often combined with quaternary ammonium compounds.
Water treatment: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is used as a non-oxidising biocide in cooling towers, process water and some wastewater systems, typically as slug doses alternating with oxidising biocides.
Paper and board: in paper machines Glutaral Glutaraldehyde controls slime-forming bacteria in white water and is used in coatings and additives.
Leather: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is a tanning and retanning agent, used for chrome-free "wet-white" leather and to give soft, full, washable leathers with good perspiration resistance.
Animal hygiene: in poultry and livestock houses, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is used, often together with quaternary ammonium compounds, for surface disinfection, fogging and vehicle and equipment disinfection.
Food processing aids: in the USA, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is permitted under specific conditions as an antimicrobial in cane and beet sugar mills (21 CFR 173.320) and as a fixing agent for the immobilisation of enzyme preparations such as glucose isomerase used for high fructose corn syrup (21 CFR 173.357).
Other uses: in-can preservation of technical products, embalming fluids, X-ray film processing (hardening of the gelatin layer), crosslinking of polymers with primary amine groups (for example gelatin, chitosan and proteins) and of polyvinyl alcohol, and as a chemical intermediate.

In aquariums, diluted Glutaral Glutaraldehyde products are sold as algicides and as "liquid carbon" for plants, the claimed plant nutrition benefit is not well documented, while the algicidal effect is the better-supported one.

COSMETIC USE OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

In cosmetics, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde appears under the INCI name Glutaral and has a preservative function. In the EU it is listed in Annex V of the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 with a maximum concentration of 0.1 % in the ready-for-use preparation, it is not allowed in aerosols and sprays, and products containing more than 0.05 % must carry the warning "contains glutaral". Because of its sensitising properties, Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is rarely used in modern cosmetics.

WHICH PROBLEMS DOES GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE SOLVE?

Heat-sensitive instruments cannot be autoclaved: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde provides high-level disinfection and cold sterilisation at room temperature.
Oxidising biocides corrode equipment or are consumed by organic load: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is non-oxidising and remains effective in water with sulphides and organics.
Sulphate-reducing bacteria cause H2S and corrosion in oil and gas systems: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde controls these bacteria.
Tissues and cells must be preserved with their fine structure: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde fixes proteins rapidly and with good structural preservation.
Chrome-free leather is required: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde enables wet-white tanning.
Protein or polymer systems need crosslinking: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde reacts readily with amino groups at mild conditions.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN USING GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

- Choose the right concentration: 50 % solutions are industrial concentrates, laboratories and formulators often prefer 25 % or lower.
- Activation shortens life: alkaline, activated Glutaral Glutaraldehyde solutions are more active but polymerise, respect the use life and test the minimum effective concentration regularly, for example with test strips in medical use.
- Avoid amines and ammonia in formulations: they react with Glutaral Glutaraldehyde and consume it.
- Organic soil consumes active: clean instruments and surfaces before disinfection.
- Worker exposure is the main risk: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde vapour is a strong irritant and a respiratory sensitiser. Use closed systems, local exhaust ventilation and lidded soaking baths.
- Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is very toxic to aquatic life, spent solutions should be neutralised (for example with sodium bisulphite or glycine, according to local rules) before discharge.
- Glutaral Glutaraldehyde products used as biocides in the EU must be authorised under the Biocidal Products Regulation for the specific product type.

INITIAL FORMULATION APPROACHES WITH GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

The percentage compositions below are illustrative laboratory starting points, not validated commercial recipes. Percentages are by weight and total 100.00 % in each example. They do not establish disinfectant efficacy, medical suitability or regulatory approval, final proportions and procedures require laboratory validation by trained personnel.

1. 2 % ALKALINE DISINFECTANT SOLUTION FROM A 50 % CONCENTRATE
Illustrative initial components for the acidic stock before activation (% w/w):
Glutaraldehyde solution (50 %): 4.00 %
Purified water: 96.00 %
Total: 100.00 %
This calculation gives 2.00 % active glutaraldehyde before any activator is added. The alkaline activator is not included in this stock composition, its addition changes the final mass and active concentration. The complete activated formulation, including buffer and any other additives, must be specified and validated separately.

Dilute 4 parts by weight of 50 % Glutaral Glutaraldehyde with 96 parts of purified water to obtain about 2 % active. Keep this acidic stock as the storage form. Just before use, add an alkaline activator (for example a sodium bicarbonate/phosphate buffer, with a corrosion inhibitor and a wetting agent if required) to reach about pH 7.5–8.5. Record the activation date, check the concentration during use and discard at the end of the validated use life. A product placed on the market as a disinfectant needs registration or approval under the applicable rules.

2. ELECTRON MICROSCOPY FIXATIVE
Illustrative initial components (% w/w):
EM-grade glutaraldehyde solution (25 %): 10.00 %
Phosphate buffer solution: 90.00 %
Total: 100.00 %
The resulting mixture contains 2.50 % active glutaraldehyde by weight. Prepare the buffer phase so that the final mixture meets the stated 0.1 M phosphate concentration and pH 7.2–7.4, confirm the final molarity using the actual solution volume. This example selects phosphate rather than cacodylate buffer.

Prepare 2.5 % Glutaral Glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M phosphate or cacodylate buffer at pH 7.2–7.4 from EM-grade material. Fix small tissue pieces or cell pellets for about 1–2 hours at room temperature or overnight at 4 °C, rinse in buffer and post-fix with osmium tetroxide. Prepare fixative fresh and use it in a fume hood.

3. CROSSLINKING OF A GELATIN OR CHITOSAN FILM
Illustrative initial components for a gelatin film (% w/w):
Water: 98.99 %
Gelatin: 1.00 %
Glutaraldehyde solution (25 %): 0.01 %
Total: 100.00 %
This mixture contains 0.0025 % active glutaraldehyde, equivalent to 0.25 % active glutaraldehyde relative to the gelatin mass. The example concerns gelatin only, a chitosan system requires its own solvent, pH and formulation design. Film washing does not itself demonstrate acceptable residual glutaraldehyde or suitability for biomedical or food-contact use, verify these separately.

Add Glutaral Glutaraldehyde to the polymer solution at a starting level of about 0.1–1 % relative to polymer, mix quickly and cast. Increase the level for lower swelling and higher strength, decrease it for flexibility. Wash the films well to remove unreacted Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, especially for biomedical or food-contact use.

These are starting points only. Every application of Glutaral Glutaraldehyde must be validated for efficacy, safety and regulatory compliance.

HOW DOES GLUTARALDEHYDE WORK AT THE MOLECULAR LEVEL?
 
Glutaraldehyde, also known as glutaral, is a five-carbon dialdehyde carrying a reactive aldehyde group at each end of the chain. Almost every use of the molecule, from disinfection to tissue fixation and leather tanning, rests on one ability: both ends can react with amino groups, so a single molecule can bridge two sites on the same protein or on neighbouring proteins.
 
What the molecule looks like in water: In aqueous solution, glutaral is not present only as the free dialdehyde. It exists in equilibrium with its hydrated forms, a cyclic hemiacetal and small oligomers, and these species interconvert continuously. The balance between them depends on concentration, temperature and pH, and it directly affects how many free aldehyde groups are available to react at any moment.
 
Reaction with proteins: The aldehyde groups react mainly with primary amines, above all the ε-amino group of lysine residues and free N-terminal amino groups. Initial addition forms Schiff base-type structures, and further reactions, including those involving unsaturated oligomers formed in solution, lead to stable, largely irreversible crosslinks. Thiol, hydroxyl and imidazole groups can also take part, but to a lesser extent. The result is a dense network of covalent bridges that locks proteins in place and blocks their normal movement and function.
 
Effect of pH: Glutaraldehyde solutions are most stable under acidic conditions, where the dialdehyde reacts relatively slowly. When the solution is made mildly alkaline, often called activation, reaction with amino groups becomes much faster and biocidal activity rises. The same alkaline conditions also promote aldol-type self-condensation of the dialdehyde, so activated solutions lose free aldehyde over time and have a limited working life compared with acidic concentrates.
 
Biocidal action: In bacteria, glutaral first reacts with proteins in the outer layers of the cell, including the cell wall, outer membrane and membrane-bound enzymes. Crosslinking these structures blocks transport across the envelope, inhibits essential enzymes and prevents the cell from dividing. Because the attack is directed at many reactive groups at once rather than at a single target, glutaraldehyde acts on a broad spectrum of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Bacterial spores are more resistant, because their protective coats slow penetration, so sporicidal action requires longer contact times.
 
Tissue fixation: In electron microscopy and histology, glutaraldehyde crosslinks proteins within cells and tissues quickly and strongly. The fine structure of membranes, organelles and the cytoskeleton is preserved because molecules can no longer shift or be extracted during later processing. Its two-ended structure allows it to span gaps between neighbouring proteins more effectively than a single aldehyde.
 
Leather tanning: In hides, glutaral reacts with the free amino groups of collagen and forms crosslinks between collagen chains. These bridges raise the shrinkage temperature of the hide, improve resistance to water and perspiration and give a softer, fuller leather. In many processes it is used together with other tanning agents to adjust the final properties.
 
Enzyme and protein immobilisation: The same crosslinking chemistry is used to attach enzymes to carriers that bear amino groups or to link enzyme molecules to each other. Covalent binding holds the enzyme on the support while preserving enough of its active structure for catalysis.
 
Neutralisation and inactivation: Free aldehyde groups can be consumed deliberately before disposal or rinsing. Sodium bisulfite forms addition products with the aldehyde groups, while amino compounds such as glycine or ammonia react with them in the same way that proteins do, reducing the amount of active glutaraldehyde left in the solution.
 
Reactivity with the body: The reactivity that makes the dialdehyde useful also explains its effect on people. Glutaral reacts with proteins of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract; modified proteins can be recognised by the immune system, which is why the molecule is known as a skin and respiratory sensitiser. Exposure therefore has to be controlled through ventilation, closed systems and suitable protective equipment.
 
How quickly and how strongly glutaraldehyde reacts depends on concentration, pH, temperature, contact time and the presence of organic material that consumes free aldehyde. Glutaraldehyde dosage and process conditions should therefore be confirmed through laboratory trials.

ALTERNATIVES TO GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Ortho-phthalaldehyde (OPA): high-level disinfectant with shorter contact time and lower vapour irritation, can stain proteins and skin.
Peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide: oxidising high-level disinfectants and sterilants, no aldehyde sensitisation, but can be more aggressive to some materials.
Formaldehyde: fixative and disinfectant, carcinogen classification and stronger regulatory restrictions.
Glyoxal: shorter dialdehyde crosslinker and biocide, lower vapour pressure.
THPS, DBNPA, isothiazolinones and quaternary ammonium compounds: alternative industrial biocides for oilfield, cooling and process water.
Chromium salts, vegetable tannins and synthetic tanning agents: alternatives in leather tanning.
Genipin, carbodiimides (EDC/NHS) and enzymatic crosslinking: alternative crosslinkers for biomaterials.

QUALITY CONTROL AND PURCHASING CRITERIA FOR GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

- identity: CAS 111-30-8, EC 203-856-5
- concentration (for example 25 % or 50 %) and assay method (for example GC or titration)
- appearance and colour (APHA), which also indicates polymerisation or ageing
- pH and acidity
- specific gravity
- methanol and other impurities
- iron and heavy metals for sensitive uses
- grade: industrial, laboratory, EM grade or pharmacopoeia grade (Glutaral solution)
- regulatory documents: SDS, biocide status for the intended product type, REACH status
- shelf life and recommended storage temperature

Product grades, specifications and documents for Glutaral Glutaraldehyde are available on request from Ataman Kimya.

STORAGE AND HANDLING OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Store Glutaral Glutaraldehyde in tightly closed original containers in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat, light, alkalis, amines and oxidising agents. Keep the containers locked up or in an area accessible only to trained personnel. Glutaral is air- and light-sensitive, laboratory grades are often stored under inert gas and refrigerated or frozen, as stated by the supplier (for example -20 °C for some reagent grades). Avoid storing activated (alkaline) solutions longer than their validated use life.
Handle Glutaral Glutaraldehyde in closed systems or under local exhaust or a fume hood, avoid generating vapours and aerosols, and take precautions against static discharge. Use containers and equipment made of compatible materials, recommendations for industrial tank materials are available on request from Ataman Kimya.

SAFETY OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Pentanedial is a hazardous substance. Its harmonised EU classification (CLP Annex VI, index 605-022-00-X) for the substance is:
Acute Tox. 3, H301: Toxic if swallowed
Acute Tox. 2, H330: Fatal if inhaled
Skin Corr. 1B, H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Eye Dam. 1, H318: Causes serious eye damage
Resp. Sens. 1, H334: May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled
Skin Sens. 1A, H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction
STOT SE 3, H335: May cause respiratory irritation (specific concentration limit from 0.5 %)
Aquatic Acute 1, H400 (M-factor 1) and Aquatic Chronic 2, H411
EUH071: Corrosive to the respiratory tract

Solutions are classified according to their concentration. For example, a 25 % aqueous solution is labelled by its supplier with the signal word Danger and H302 + H332, H314, H317, H334, H335, H410 and EUH071, and is transported as UN 3265, Corrosive liquid, acidic, organic, n.o.s. (Glutaraldehyde), class 8, packing group II. The classification and transport data of other concentrations are given in the SDS of the supplied product, available on request from Ataman Kimya.

Toxicological data (substance, from supplier SDS): LD50 oral rat 200 mg/kg, LC50 inhalation rat (4 h, mist) 0.28 mg/L, LD50 dermal rabbit more than 1,000 mg/kg, 50 % solution corrosive to skin and causing irreversible eye damage in rabbits. The dialdehyde is a well-documented skin and respiratory sensitiser in occupational settings. It is not classified as a carcinogen.
Occupational exposure: limits are very low, for example, ACGIH recommends a ceiling value (TLV-C) of 0.05 ppm. National limits apply.
Protective equipment: tightly fitting safety goggles and face shield, suitable chemical-resistant gloves (for example nitrile or butyl rubber), acid-resistant protective clothing, and respiratory protection with a combination filter (for example type ABEK) when vapours or aerosols can be generated.
First aid: after inhalation, move to fresh air and call a physician immediately, after skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and rinse with water, then seek medical advice, after eye contact, rinse with plenty of water, remove contact lenses and call an ophthalmologist immediately, after swallowing, give at most two glasses of water, do not induce vomiting and call a physician immediately.
Environment: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is very toxic to aquatic organisms (for example LC50 rainbow trout 96 h 0.8 mg/L, ErC50 green algae 72 h 0.6 mg/L), but it is biodegradable and does not bioaccumulate (log Pow approx. -0.36). Do not allow undiluted product to enter drains or surface water.

REGULATORY NOTES:
- REACH: glutaral was added to the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern on 15 July 2021 because of its respiratory sensitising properties (Article 57(f)). In April 2023 ECHA recommended it for inclusion in the Authorisation List (Annex XIV), the current authorisation status should be checked before purchase.
- Biocides: glutaraldehyde is an approved active substance under the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1759) for product types 2, 3, 4, 6, 11 and 12, biocidal products need their own authorisation.
- Cosmetics: EU Annex V preservative, maximum 0.1 %, not in aerosols and sprays.

BUYING GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

Glutaraldehyde is supplied mainly as 50 % and 25 % aqueous solutions in plastic drums, IBCs and, for large users, in bulk, and in smaller bottles and ampoules for laboratories. When requesting an offer, please state the required concentration and grade, the application (for example oilfield biocide, water treatment, leather, disinfectant formulation or laboratory), the packaging, the annual volume and the documents needed. Because Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is a corrosive dangerous good and an SVHC, buyers should also confirm their internal storage and handling permissions. Available grades and packaging are available on request from Ataman Kimya.

SUPPLY OF GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE FROM ATAMAN KIMYA

Ataman Kimya supplies Glutaral Glutaraldehyde to customers in water treatment, oil and gas, leather, animal hygiene, disinfectant manufacturing and other industries. Ataman Kimya provides SDS, TDS and COA documents, information on concentration and grade selection, and support with packaging, transport and logistics of Glutaral Glutaraldehyde. For quotations and technical questions, please contact Ataman Kimya.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE

ARE GLUTARAL AND GLUTARALDEHYDE THE SAME?
Yes. Glutaral is the INN and INCI name, glutaraldehyde the common chemical name and pentanedial the IUPAC name of the same substance, CAS 111-30-8.

WHY IS GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE SOLD AS A SOLUTION AND NOT PURE?
Pure Glutaral Glutaraldehyde polymerises easily. Acidic aqueous solutions, usually 25 % or 50 %, are much more stable.

WHAT DOES "ACTIVATED GLUTARALDEHYDE" MEAN?
An acidic Glutaral Glutaraldehyde solution that has been made alkaline (about pH 7.5–8.5) just before use. Activation increases biocidal activity but limits the use life to a few weeks.

IS GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE SPORICIDAL?
Yes, but only with alkaline activated solutions and long contact times of several hours. Normal high-level disinfection times do not reliably kill all spores.

IS GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE THE SAME AS LUPASOL G 100?
No. Lupasol G 100 is a BASF polyethyleneimine, it is a completely different substance.

WHAT IS THE MAIN SAFETY CONCERN WITH GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE?
Worker exposure: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde is corrosive, toxic if inhaled and a skin and respiratory sensitiser that can cause occupational asthma and dermatitis.

CAN GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE BE USED IN COSMETICS?
In the EU only as a preservative up to 0.1 %, not in sprays, and with a warning above 0.05 %.

IS GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE BIODEGRADABLE?
Yes. It is biodegradable and does not bioaccumulate, but it is very toxic to aquatic life before it degrades.

HOW SHOULD SPENT GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE SOLUTIONS BE DISPOSED OF?
According to local regulations, in many cases they are neutralised before discharge or collected as chemical waste.

GLUTARAL GLUTARALDEHYDE – TECHNICAL SUMMARY

Product name: Glutaral Glutaraldehyde
Other names: Glutaraldehyde, Glutaral, Pentanedial, 1,5-Pentanedial, Glutaric dialdehyde
CAS No: 111-30-8
EC No: 203-856-5
EU Index No: 605-022-00-X
Molecular formula: C5H8O2
Molecular weight: 100.12 g/mol
Commercial forms: Aqueous solutions, typically 25 % and 50 %
Appearance: Clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid, pungent odour
Pure substance: Melting point approx. -14 °C, boiling point approx. 187–189 °C (dec.)
50 % solution: pH approx. 3–5, specific gravity approx. 1.12–1.13
Water solubility: Miscible
Main uses: High-level disinfection and cold sterilisation, oilfield and water treatment biocide, leather tanning, fixation and crosslinking, animal hygiene, paper industry
Hazards (substance): H301, H330, H314, H318, H334, H317, H335, H400, H411, EUH071
Transport (25 % solution example): UN 3265, class 8, PG II
Regulatory: REACH SVHC (2021), EU BPR approved for PT 2, 3, 4, 6, 11, 12, EU cosmetics max. 0.1 %

Glutaral Glutaraldehyde can be sourced from ATAMAN KİMYA. For further information and supply inquiries about Glutaral Glutaraldehyde, please contact ATAMAN KİMYA.