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Glycolic acid

CAS Number
79-14-1
EC Number
201-180-5
Chemical Formula
C2H4O3
Molecular Weight
76.05 g/mol

Description

Glycolic acid (CAS 79-14-1 ) is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid, giving it exceptional skin penetration relative to other AHA compounds used in cosmetic formulations. Industrially, it functions as a pH regulator, chelating agent, and descaling chemistry across a broad range of manufacturing processes. In personal care, it is the active ingredient in chemical exfoliant products — peels, serums, and anti-aging creams — where concentration and grade determine regulatory classification. Textile and leather processors use it for pH control during dyeing and tanning operations. Consistent acidity directly affects color uptake and hide quality in these industrial settings. Water treatment applications rely on its chelating action to sequester metal ions and inhibit scale formation in boiler and cooling systems. In food-contact and industrial cleaning formulations, it serves as a descaling and surface-conditioning acid where low residue and biodegradability are procurement advantages. Glycolic acid is supplied as an aqueous solution, most commonly at 70% concentration. Lower concentrations are available for specific end-use requirements. Technical and industrial grades cover the cleaning and process chemistry markets, while cosmetic-grade material meets purity standards required by personal care manufacturers. Food-grade specifications are also available for applications requiring compliance with food-contact or FCC standards. This ensures the material meets the rigorous safety and quality benchmarks necessary for sensitive industrial applications. Contact us for supply of Glycolic acid Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

α-hydroxyacetic acid | hydroxyethanoic Acid | HOCH2COOH | glycollic acid | alpha-hydroxyacetic acid | alpha-hydroxyacetate | 2-hydroxyethanoic acid | 2-hydroxyacetic acid

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point80 °C
Boiling Point157 °C @ Press: 18 Torr
Density1.49 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point112°C
Appearancecolourless crystalline solid
ColorWhite to off-white
Odorat 100.00 %. odorless very mild buttery
FormSolution
Water SolubilitySOLUBLE
Vapor Pressure10.8 hPa (80 °C)
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.424
pH2 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P-1.07 at 20℃

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS05· CorrosiveGHS07· IrritantGHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H302Harmful if swallowed
H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H318Causes serious eye damage
H332Harmful if inhaled
H333May be harmful if inhaled
H361Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child
H370Causes damage to organs
H373May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
H402Harmful to aquatic life

Precautionary Statements

P203Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P318IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P363Wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P331Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P354IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29181990
UN Number3265
ADR Class8
Packing GroupIII
Storage Class8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)1