Glyoxylic Acid (UN3265) DG Transport Compliance

PART.01 Overview of Glyoxylic Acid

Glyoxylic Acid (Chemical Formula: C₂H₂O₃) is typically handled as a 50% aqueous solution in industrial applications, appearing as a colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid. It is readily soluble in water and ethanol, slightly soluble in ether. Decomposition occurs at temperatures exceeding 111°C, producing toxic gases including carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. This chemical is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry (e.g., synthesis of antibiotics like Amoxicillin, antiviral drugs, anticoagulants), the cosmetics industry (e.g., anti-wrinkle, exfoliating products), as well as in electroplating and agriculture.

Given the risks of leakage, fire, explosion, and potential environmental contamination associated with its transport, Glyoxylic Acid must be shipped in strict compliance with relevant dangerous goods regulations.

PART.02 Hazard Characteristics and Classification

According to international dangerous goods transport standards, Glyoxylic Acid (solution) is classified as:

• UN Number: UN3265

• Primary Hazard Class: Class 8 - Corrosive Substances

Its core hazardous properties are:

• Strong Corrosivity: Capable of causing severe damage to skin, mucous membranes, and metal materials. Liquid leakage can corrode transport vehicles, port facilities, and even dissolve metal components leading to structural failure (Oral LD₅₀ in rats for 40% solution: 70mg/kg).

• Reactivity: Decomposes at elevated temperatures producing toxic gases (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide). Contact with oxidizing agents or alkaline substances may cause violent reactions, posing risks of combustion or explosion.

PART.03 Core Regulatory Framework for Transport

The transportation of Glyoxylic Acid must strictly adhere to the following international and national regulations:

• Foundational Standard: United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods - Model Regulations (TDG) - Defines hazard classification, packaging, and labelling requirements.

• International Maritime Transport: International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) - Requires the use of Packing Group I or II packaging. Containers must display clearly visible CORROSIVE placards externally.

• Air Transport: IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA-DGR) - Prohibited on passenger aircraft; cargo aircraft transport requires packaging certified to pass Packing Group II performance tests.

• China Road Transport: Rules for Road Transport of Dangerous Goods (JT/T 617) - Aligned with the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR). Vehicles must possess dangerous goods transport authorization; drivers and attendants require valid professional qualification certificates.

• Other Transport Modes: Includes the Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID) and the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways (ADN) for specific modes.

PART.04 Transport Packaging and Operational Requirements

PART.05 Additional Requirements

All packaging must pass performance testing and be permanently marked with UN3265, hazard class (Class 8), and appropriate hazard warning labels. Packaging must meet performance standards of applicable regulations (e.g., IMDG Code for sea, IATA-DGR for air).

Transport Documentation: Complete and valid documentation must accompany the shipment:

• Maritime: Dangerous Goods Packaging Certificate (CTU/Performance Test Certificate), Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Shipper's Declaration, Packing List, Declaration on Safety & Fitness of Dangerous Goods for Shipment.

• Road: Dangerous Goods Road Transport License, Driver/Attendant Qualification Certificates, Vehicle GPS Tracking System Certificate, Transport Emergency Plan.

• Air: SDS, IATA-DGR Packaging Compliance Certificate, Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods (explicitly stating "Cargo Aircraft Only").

Professional Advisory:

Prior to shipping Glyoxylic Acid, ensure packaging fully complies with its corrosive properties and the specific requirements of the transport mode. Verify all documentation is accurate, complete, and adheres to the latest regulatory editions. Consultation with a professional dangerous goods transport service provider is recommended.

For further assistance with the compliant transport of Class 8 Corrosives like Glyoxylic Acid (UN3265), please contact our Dangerous Goods Specialists.