Blotting Paper
Blotting Paper is a highly absorbent, unsized paper made from purified cellulose, used primarily for absorbing excess liquids such as ink, oils, and solvents. In laboratory and industrial settings, it is critical for procedures requiring rapid and uniform absorption without chemical interference. Its porous and capillary-active nature makes it ideal for blotting techniques in analytical chemistry, biology (such as electrophoresis or Western blotting), and precision cleaning tasks. Blotting paper is available in various thicknesses and porosities to suit specific tasks, from fine analytical work to heavy-duty industrial absorption needs.
Uses
Primary Uses
Laboratory Applications
- Used in chromatographic techniques for separating and identifying compounds.
- Essential in blotting techniques such as Western, Southern, and Northern blotting for molecular biology assays.
- Acts as a support medium in electrophoresis and other staining protocols.
- Employed to absorb excess solvents, reagents, or moisture from surfaces or glassware.
- Utilized in precision weighing to prevent sample loss from static or moisture.
- Serves as a blotting medium during slide staining or chemical spill absorption.
Secondary Uses
Industrial Applications
- Used for cleaning delicate equipment and absorbing fine liquid residues during production.
- Applied in printing industries to absorb excess ink during quality control testing.
- Utilized in pharmaceutical and cosmetic production lines for moisture control and transfer operations.
- Integrated into material handling areas for rapid cleanup of accidental chemical drips or leaks.
- Used in electronics assembly for controlled absorption of cleaning solvents.
- Employed in specialty packaging for moisture control in sensitive shipments.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Product Type: Absorbent paper
- Material: 100% purified cellulose
- Function: Absorbs liquids rapidly without chemical reaction or interference
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Appearance: White or off-white, porous paper
- Texture: Soft, fibrous, and pliable
- Thickness: Varies depending on grade (typically 0.1 mm to 1 mm)
- Absorbency: High (capillary-active surface)
- pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (varies by manufacturer)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water and solvents
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
- Allergen Information: Made from plant-based cellulose; low allergenic risk
- Exposure Limits: None under normal use
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Keep in a dry, cool environment to avoid moisture absorption before use
- Handling Precautions: Handle with clean, dry hands or gloves to maintain purity
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Manufactured under ISO-certified quality systems
- Suitable for use in cleanroom or controlled laboratory environments
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Fully biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: None
- Bioaccumulation: Not applicable
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: None required under normal use
- Handling Guidelines: Avoid contamination by oils or solvents before use in analytical applications
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Not applicable
- Skin Contact: Not applicable
- Eye Contact: Not applicable
- Ingestion: Not intended for ingestion; seek medical attention if accidentally ingested in large quantities
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Flammable paper material
- Extinguishing Media: Water, foam, dry chemical
- Special Precautions: Avoid high-heat storage areas
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide