Glutaraldehyde

Glutaraldehyde is a colorless oily liquid with a pungent odor. Proteins are what it cross-links with. Chemical Formula: ** C5H8O  2 Synonyms: Glutaral, Glutardialdehyde, Glutaric dialdehyde Exposure to glutaraldehyde could lead to these health risks. ** Short-term effects:

 Long-term effects:
 *  Nasal Irritation
 * Sneezing
 * Burning eyes
 * Dizziness
 * Nosebleeds


 *  Allergic Reaction
 *  Throat and lung irritation,
 * Asthma
 * Wheezing
 * Difficult breathing

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Glutaraldehyde is used as an embalming solution, to disinfect instruments and as a tissue fixative. It is usually used to disinfect surgical, dental equipment that is heat sensitive. Bronchoscopes, nose and throat instruments, tanning agent, animal health industry, water treatment and a hardening agent in development of x-rays. It is also used as preservation in cosmetics and printing industry.

<span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;">An interesting topic I found on this chemical was over several discussions and heated arguments over formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde. Some embalmers like to use glutaraldehyde over formaldehyde due to the strong fumes formaldehyde produces. Sanitation verses preservation, etc.