China and the United States are the leading exporters of glycolic acid, collectively accounting for a majority of global shipments, while Germany, South Korea, and India represent the largest importers. Glycolic acid prices have remained relatively stable amid steady demand from cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial cleaning sectors. Export volumes from China have increased modestly over the past two years, while U.S. exports have held steady, reflecting consistent global supply distribution and resilient import demand across key Asian and European markets.
Glycolic acid is a colorless, hygroscopic crystalline solid at room temperature, with a mild, characteristic sour odor and high water solubility. It is the smallest α-hydroxy carboxylic acid and is classified as an organic chemical intermediate. Industrially, it serves primarily as a precursor in the synthesis of glycolate esters, polyglycolic acid (PGA) polymers, and corrosion inhibitors. Its key application areas include pharmaceuticals (as an excipient and active pharmaceutical ingredient intermediate), cosmetics (in skin-care formulations for exfoliation), agrochemicals (in chelating agents and pesticide formulations), and industrial cleaning products (as a descaling agent). It is also used in textile dyeing and leather tanning processes.
Constituent of sugar cane juice.
Glycolic acid, CH20HCOOH, also known as hydroxyacetic acid, is composed of colorless deliquescent leaflets that decompose at approximately 78° C (172 OF). It is soluble in water,alcohol,and ether.Glycolic acid is used in dyeing, tanning, electropolishing,and in foodstuffs. It is produced by oxidizing glycol with dilute nitric acid.
This chemical is included in Fine Chemicals. See more about what is Glycolic acid and Glycolic acid SDS information.
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