Glutaraldehyde is an organic compound with the molecular formula C₅H₈O₂, typically appearing as a colorless to pale yellow transparent liquid with a pungent odor. Its key chemical properties lie in its strong reactivity and biocidal ability: it can cross-link with proteins in microbial cells (such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses), denaturing proteins and destroying cell structures to achieve sterilization. Additionally, it has good stability in neutral to slightly alkaline environments (optimal pH 7.5-8.5) and can maintain efficacy at room temperature without requiring high-temperature conditions. These properties make it widely used in medical disinfection, water treatment, and leather tanning—for example, it is a common high-level disinfectant for medical devices like endoscopes.