Lugols Iodine Extra Pure
Lugol’s Iodine Extra Pure is a superior-grade aqueous solution composed of elemental iodine and potassium iodide, known for its wide-ranging applications in laboratories, microscopy, and medical diagnostics. Valued for its strong staining properties, it is commonly used in biology to identify starch in plant cells and as a general-purpose cellular stain to enhance visibility under a microscope. Its extra pure formulation ensures high clarity, minimal impurities, and consistent results in sensitive applications. Additionally, it plays a role in preparing specimens, sterilization procedures, and certain medical antiseptic practices. Store tightly sealed, away from light and heat, to preserve potency.
Lugols Iodine Extra Pure
Primary Laboratory Uses:
- Starch Indicator:
- Commonly used to test for the presence of starch; turns blue-black in the presence of starch, making it essential in biological and food analysis.
- Microscopy Stain:
- Serves as a contrast stain in microscopy, especially for highlighting cell structures like nuclei in plant and animal cells.
- Antiseptic Agent:
- Used in lab settings for disinfection of surfaces and minor tools due to its iodine content.
Secondary Laboratory Uses:
- Glycogen Detection:
- Helps detect glycogen in cells and tissues, especially in histological studies.
- Protozoan Staining:
- Aids in staining intestinal parasites and cysts in biological and clinical samples.
- Redox Reactions:
- Occasionally used in redox titrations or as part of iodine-based redox systems.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Lugol’s Iodine
- Synonyms: Aqueous Iodine Solution, Iodine-Potassium Iodide Solution
- Composition:
- Typically 5% elemental iodine (I₂)
- 10% potassium iodide (KI)
- In distilled water
- Appearance: Reddish-brown liquid
- Odor: Characteristic iodine odor
- Solubility: Miscible with water
- Grade: Extra Pure (analytical grade)
2. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- Skin Irritant (Category 2)
- Eye Irritant (Category 2A)
- Harmful if swallowed (Category 4)
- Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
- H302: Harmful if swallowed
- H315: Causes skin irritation
- H319: Causes serious eye irritation
- Precautionary Statements:
- P264: Wash hands thoroughly after handling
- P280: Wear protective gloves and eye/face protection
- P301+P312: If swallowed, call a poison center or doctor
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Nitrile gloves, goggles, lab coat
- First Aid Measures:
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting; seek medical advice
- Fire Hazards:
- Not flammable
- Use standard extinguishing agents for surrounding fire
3. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a tightly sealed, amber bottle
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from light and incompatible materials (e.g., reducing agents)
- Avoid heat and direct sunlight
- Handling Tips:
- Handle with care to avoid skin or clothing stains
- Do not breathe vapors or ingest
4. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- Starch detection: Forms a blue-black complex with starch
- Microscopy stain: Used as a contrast stain for plant cells and protozoa
- Iodometry (Redox titration): In analytical chemistry for redox reactions
- Secondary Uses:
- Disinfectant and antiseptic (non-laboratory, with appropriate dilution)
- Educational demonstrations of chemical reactions
- Nutrient test in biology labs (e.g., starch in food)
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and safety goggles.
- Work in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to avoid vapor exposure.
Handling:
- Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with skin and eyes.
- Handle with care to prevent spills and staining.
- Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and dark place.
- Protect from light and heat.
- Keep away from incompatible substances such as strong reducing agents.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move to fresh air immediately.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as coughing or difficulty breathing occur.
Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical advice if irritation or staining persists.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek immediate medical assistance.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not considered flammable, but may support combustion of other materials.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemicals, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or foam.
- Water spray may be used to cool containers.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- Emits toxic iodine vapors, hydrogen iodide, and oxides of iodine when heated.
Firefighter Protection:
- Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.