CAS 79-14-1|C₂H₄O₃

Glycolic Acid

Alpha-hydroxy acid supplied as 70% aqueous solution — industrial descaler, oilfield acidizing agent, and personal care AHA.

Concentration

70% Aqueous

pH (10% soln)

~1.5

DOT Class

8 — Corrosive

Packaging

Drum / Tote / Bulk

Physical Properties

Molecular FormulaC₂H₄O₃
Molecular Weight76.05 g/mol
CAS Number79-14-1
Boiling Point (pure)Decomposes ~100 °C
Melting Point (pure)75–80 °C (167–176 °F)
Flash Point (70% soln)None (aqueous solution)
Density (70% soln)1.25 g/cm³ at 20 °C
pH (10% soln)~1.5
Solubility in WaterMiscible in all proportions
pKa3.83 at 25 °C
Typical Concentration70% aqueous solution
DOT ClassificationCorrosive liquid (8)
HOCH₂COOHC₂H₄O₃ | MW 76.05 g/mol | CAS 79-14-1

Grades & Packaging

70% Aqueous SolutionTechnical GradeUSP Grade
55-gal Drums275-gal TotesBulk Tanker

Industrial Applications

Industrial Cleaning & Descaling

Effective descaler for boilers, heat exchangers, and cooling towers. Removes calcium, iron, and mineral deposits without damaging metal surfaces.

Oil & Gas Well Stimulation

Acidizing agent for carbonate and sandstone formations. Slower reaction rate than HCl allows deeper penetration in matrix acidizing.

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) in chemical peels, exfoliants, and anti-aging skin care formulations. Promotes cell turnover.

Textile Processing

Dyeing auxiliary and pH regulator in textile finishing. Improves dye uptake and fabric hand.

Food Processing Equipment

USDA-approved cleaner for food-contact surfaces. Removes mineral scale and biofilm from dairy and beverage equipment.

Polymer Synthesis

Monomer for biodegradable polyglycolic acid (PGA) and PLGA copolymers used in medical sutures and drug delivery.

Safety & Regulatory

NFPA Health3 — Serious hazard (corrosive)
NFPA Flammability0 — Minimal hazard (70% soln)
NFPA Reactivity0 — Stable
OSHA PEL (TWA)No established PEL
ACGIH TLV (TWA)Not established
DOT Hazard Class8 — Corrosive Liquid
UN NumberUN 3265
Packing GroupIII

Corrosive — Handle with Care

Glycolic acid is corrosive to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Use chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection. SDS available upon request.

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70% aqueous solution in drums, totes, and bulk tanker delivery across Texas and the Gulf Coast.

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