Glutaraldehyde (CAS 111-30-8) is a reactive dialdehyde supplied as an aqueous solution, and buying it is not like buying a simple commodity chemical — the concentration, the storage stability, the acidity and the supplier’s documentation all matter. This purchasing guide covers the specification sheet, the COA, packaging and storage, and the supplier checklist for glutaraldehyde.
1. Reading the Glutaraldehyde Specification
| Parameter | Typical value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Active content | 25% or 50% aqueous | Sets the use dilution; 50% is the common industrial grade |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid | Visual QC |
| pH (as supplied) | 3.5-4.5 (acidic) | Affects stability; alkaline grades are formulated for disinfection |
| Acidity (free acid) | Low | Corrosion and formulation impact |
| Color (APHA) | Low | Consistency indicator |
2. What a Complete COA Should Contain
- Product name and CAS number (111-30-8)
- Batch number and production date
- Active content (measured)
- pH and acidity
- Color and appearance
- Test methods and quality manager signature
3. Packaging, Storage and Shelf Life
- Packaging: typically drums (200 kg), IBC totes or bulk; 25% and 50% grades are standard.
- Storage: store sealed, cool (avoid heat), away from strong oxidizers and bases; do not freeze.
- Shelf life: typically 12-24 months when stored properly; glutaraldehyde slowly oligomerizes over time, so check assay and appearance before use.
- Handling: irritating and sensitizing — use gloves, goggles and ventilation; see the SDS.
4. MOQ, Lead Time and Logistics
- MOQ: from trial drums to full container loads.
- Documents: invoice, packing list, COA, MSDS, certificate of origin for exports.
- Shipping: glutaraldehyde solutions are regulated (irritant/corrosive classification) — confirm the SDS and shipping class with your forwarder.
5. How to Verify Quality on Arrival
- Check container integrity and labels against the COA batch number.
- Visual check: clear liquid, no haze, no precipitate.
- Verify active content (density/refractive index are common quick checks) against the COA.
- Check pH and compare with the COA.
- Run a small efficacy/suitability test for your application.
- Keep a retained sample per batch.
6. Supplier Checklist
- Manufacturer vs trader — manufacturers control assay consistency.
- Consistent COA with measured active content on every batch.
- Grade availability: 25%, 50%, alkaline-activated formulations if needed.
- Stable supply and reasonable lead time.
- Export documentation and correct dangerous-goods paperwork.
7. FAQ
25% or 50% glutaraldehyde — which should I buy?
50% is the standard industrial grade for dilution at the use point; 25% is common for medical/disinfection formulations. Choose by your end use and logistics.
Why does my glutaraldehyde turn cloudy?
Cloudiness usually indicates oligomerization or contamination — often from heat, age or impurities. Check assay and storage conditions; do not use a degraded product in critical applications.
Is glutaraldehyde a dangerous good?
It is classified as irritant/corrosive and regulated in transport in many regions; confirm the SDS and shipping classification.
Can I get a trial sample?
Yes. PolyblueChem offers trial drums so you can validate the product before ordering bulk.
8. References and Further Reading
- Manufacturer SDS and COA guidance for glutaraldehyde
- Industry technical literature on aldehyde handling and storage
This article is published for industrial and technical reference by PolyblueChem. Specifications are typical industry values; always verify against the supplier’s COA.
PolyblueChem supplies glutaraldehyde (CAS 111-30-8) in 25% and 50% grades with COA and MSDS. See our glutaraldehyde guide. Contact us for samples and quotations.