Glycolic acid
[CAS# 79-14-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Antineoplastic agents >> Antimetabolite antineoplastic
• Name: Glycolic acid
• Synonyms: Hydroxyacetic acid
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₄O₃
• Molecular Weight: 76.05
• CAS Registry Number: 79-14-1
• EC Number: 201-180-5
• SMILES: C(C(=O)O)O

Properties

• Density: 1.27 g/mL
• Melting point: 76 °C
• Boiling point: 113 °C
• Water solubility: Soluble
• Refractive index: 1.411
• Flash point: 129 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H302-H314-H318-H332
• Safety Statements: P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P280-P301+P317-P301+P330+P331-P302+P361+P354-P304+P340-P305+P354+P338-P316-P317-P321-P330-P363-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1A	H314
Substances or mixtures corrosive to metals	Met. Corr.	1	H290
Reproductive toxicity	Repr.	1B	H360
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	2	H371
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H331
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319

Discovery and Applications

Glycolic acid is a well-known organic acid with a range of important applications across various industries. Its discovery and multiple uses make it a key compound in the industrial and cosmetic fields.

Glycolic acid (C₂H₄O₃) was first isolated in 1832 by French chemist Henri Braconnot. He extracted it from sugar cane and later from unripe grapes. The compound is a colorless and odorless liquid with a slightly sour taste. Its discovery was crucial in the study of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which play an important role in many chemical and biological processes.

Glycolic acid is the smallest alpha-hydroxy acid and is highly soluble in water. With a melting point of 76°C and a pKa of 3.83, it is a relatively strong acid compared to other AHAs. Its small molecular size enables it to penetrate the skin effectively, which is essential for its use in cosmetic formulations.

Glycolic acid is widely used in cosmetics for its exfoliating properties. It is a key ingredient in chemical peels and facials, helping to remove dead skin cells, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its ability to stimulate collagen production also helps to make the skin look younger.

Medically, glycolic acid is used in a variety of skin treatments. It is used to treat acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and other skin conditions. Its effectiveness in promoting skin regeneration makes it a valuable tool in dermatology.

Glycolic acid is used in dyeing and finishing processes in the textile industry. It is used to improve the color fastness of fabrics and adjust the pH of dye baths. In addition, it is used to produce biodegradable polymers and as a cleaning agent in various industrial applications.

In the food industry, glycolic acid is used as an acidulant to adjust the acidity of foods and enhance flavor. It is also used in the formulation of certain beverages and processed foods to maintain stability and extend shelf life.

Research is ongoing to explore more efficient and sustainable methods of producing glycolic acid. Advances in biotechnology and green chemistry are aimed at developing environmentally friendly production processes and new applications, further expanding its role in various industries.

References

2024. Metabolic engineering of Halomonas bluephagenesis for the production of ethylene glycol and glycolate from xylose. Journal of Biotechnology, 405.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2024.10.006

2024. Polymyxin B Loaded Poly Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid Nanoparticles Retains Antimicrobial Activity and Reduces Kidney Cells Damage. BioNanoScience, 14(4).
DOI: 10.1007/s12668-024-01735-z

2024. Engineering Komagataella phaffii for ethylene glycol production from xylose. AMB Express, 14(1).
DOI: 10.1186/s13568-024-01795-0