glutaraldehidi

Glutaraldehyde is a chemical compound with the formula CH2(CH)2CHO)2. It is a colorless oily liquid with a faint odor and is soluble in water and alcohol. Glutaraldehyde is a potent biocide, meaning it can kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This property makes it useful as a disinfectant and sterilant, particularly in healthcare settings for medical equipment that cannot be autoclaved. It works by cross-linking proteins and nucleic acids within microbial cells, rendering them inactive.

In addition to its antimicrobial applications, glutaraldehyde is used in various industrial processes. It serves as a cross-linking agent in leather tanning and as a fixative in electron microscopy to preserve biological tissues for detailed examination. It is also employed in some water treatment applications to control microbial growth. However, glutaraldehyde is also a known irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and exposure can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Proper handling procedures and protective equipment are necessary when working with this chemical. Due to its effectiveness, glutaraldehyde remains an important disinfectant and chemical agent, though its use is balanced with considerations for safety and environmental impact.