Glutaraldehyde biocide is a saturated dialdehyde which has commonly been used as a disinfectant and chemical sterilant in oilfield operations.

The antimicrobial activity of the biocide is due to the alkylation of hydroxyl carbonyl and amino groups which affects DNA, RNA and protein synthesis.

Glutaraldehyde biocide is also a component of hydraulic fracturing fluid and is pumped into the oil wells to inhibit microbial growth which impairs extraction of oil and gas from the wells.