D-(+)-Glucose Monohydrate

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

D-(+)-Glucose Monohydrate is the hydrated form of dextrose, a fundamental carbohydrate in biochemistry. As a monosaccharide, it serves as a primary energy source in cellular metabolism and is industrially produced through starch hydrolysis. The monohydrate form stabilizes the crystalline structure, making it preferable for many pharmaceutical and food applications. This compound exists naturally in fruits and honey but is commercially manufactured from corn or wheat starch. Its high purity (typically >99.5%) and consistent quality make it essential for medical formulations, where precise dosing is critical. The 'D-(+)' designation indicates its specific optical rotation and stereochemistry.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The monohydrate crystals exhibit orthorhombic geometry and lose water molecules when heated above 50°C. Its sweetness is approximately 70-80% that of sucrose, with a clean, non-bitter aftertaste. As a reducing sugar, it participates in Maillard reactions and caramelization. Key chemical behaviors include mutarotation in solution (interconversion between α and β anomers) and fermentation by yeasts. Its high solubility and low viscosity in water facilitate use in syrups and injections. The compound shows characteristic IR absorption at 3300 cm⁻¹ (O-H stretch) and 1600 cm⁻¹ (C=O stretch).

Main Applications

In pharmaceuticals, it serves as an excipient in tablet formulations (diluent) and osmotic agents in oral rehydration salts. The USP-grade material is sterilized for intravenous solutions to treat hypoglycemia. Food industries use it as a sweetener, texture modifier, and fermentation substrate in baking and brewing. Biotechnology applications include cell culture media and diagnostic reagent production. Industrial uses span leather tanning, concrete retarders, and reducing agents in metallurgy. Recent research explores its potential in biodegradable plastics and biofuel production.

Safety and Storage

Classified as non-hazardous under GHS, though dust may irritate respiratory tracts. Diabetic patients should monitor intake, as rapid absorption may spike blood sugar levels. Proper storage requires relative humidity below 65% to prevent caking. Incompatibilities include strong oxidizers (risk of exothermic reactions) and amines (Maillard byproducts). Shelf life typically exceeds 3 years when stored in original packaging. For large-scale storage, climate-controlled warehouses with palletized goods are recommended to prevent moisture absorption.

B2B Procurement Guide

Pharmaceutical buyers should verify compliance with USP/EP/JP monographs, including residue on ignition (<0.1%) and heavy metal limits (<5 ppm). Food-grade purchases require Kosher/Halal certification if applicable. Bulk shipments (25kg bags or super sacks) offer 15-30% cost savings versus retail packaging. Key supplier qualifications include ISO 9001 certification and batch-specific Certificates of Analysis. Spot purchases may fluctuate with corn crop yields. Just-in-time inventory is advisable due to hygroscopic nature. Consider toll manufacturing options for customized blends with electrolytes or vitamins.