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Malachite Green

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Malachite Green is a synthetic organic compound classified as a triarylmethane dye. It appears as a green crystalline powder with a brilliant metallic sheen and is highly soluble in water and alcohol. While originally developed as a textile dye, Malachite Green is widely used in aquaculture, microbiology, and histology due to its antifungal, antibacterial, and staining properties. It is typically available in two forms: the oxalate and hydrochloride salts. Although effective in many industrial and biological applications, its use in food and veterinary contexts is restricted or banned in several countries due to toxicity concerns.

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Categories: Pesticides (Herbicides, Insecticides, Fungicides), Dyes and Pigments Tags: Antifungal Agent, Dye, Malachite Green, Pigment, Textile dye

Description

Table of Contents

Malachite Green

Primary Uses

Aquaculture & Fisheries

Antifungal Agent: Widely used to treat fungal infections (such as Saprolegnia) on fish eggs and freshwater fish.
Antiparasitic: Used to control protozoan parasites like Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (“Ich”) and other external infections in ornamental and aquaculture species.
Disinfectant: Applied to tanks, nets, and water systems to reduce microbial load and prevent disease outbreaks.

Textile Industry

Dye for Silk, Wool, and Leather: Used for direct dyeing of protein-based fibers due to its bright green color and affinity for animal-based substrates.
Mordant Dyeing: Utilized in combination with mordants to dye cotton and cellulose fibers.
Colorant in Paper and Ink: Occasionally used for coloration of specialty papers and inks.

Biological and Laboratory Applications

Microbiological Staining: Employed as a counterstain in bacterial spore staining (e.g., Schaeffer-Fulton method).
Histological Dye: Stains tissues and cell components, particularly nuclei and cytoplasm, in microscopy.
DNA Staining: Sometimes used in gel electrophoresis staining protocols.

Analytical Chemistry

Redox Indicator: Functions as a redox indicator in titrations and various analytical procedures due to its color change on oxidation/reduction.
Adsorption Studies: Common test compound in dye adsorption experiments for environmental and chemical research.

Secondary Uses

Biocide in Agriculture

Occasionally used as a fungicide in seeds and crop protection (now largely phased out due to toxicity).

Forensics and Detection

Used in forensic science to detect latent fingerprints or biological samples when combined with other chemicals.

Art and Pigments

Historically used in art for green pigments in inks and paints (now replaced with safer alternatives).

Education & Training

Demonstration chemical in school laboratories for redox reactions, dye behavior, and biological staining.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): [4-[(4-dimethylaminophenyl)-phenyl-methylene]-N,N-dimethylaniline] chloride
Common/Trade Name: Malachite Green
CAS Number: 569-64-2 (oxalate); 2437-29-8 (hydrochloride)
HS Code: 3204.13.00
Synonyms: Basic Green 4; Aniline Green; Diamond Green B; Victoria Green B; C.I. 42000

Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder
Color & Odor: Deep green; odorless
Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol
Melting Point: 150–160 °C (decomposes)
Molecular Formula: C₂₃H₂₅ClN₂ (hydrochloride salt)
Molecular Weight: ~364.91 g/mol
pH (1% solution): ~4.0–6.0
Stability: Stable under normal storage; sensitive to light and heat

Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification:
- Acute Toxicity (Oral) – Category 3
- Eye Irritation – Category 2A
- Skin Sensitizer – Category 1
- Aquatic Toxicity – Very toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Toxicity:
- Known to be toxic if ingested or absorbed; linked to mutagenic and carcinogenic effects in lab studies
- Banned in food fish production in many countries
Exposure Limits: No established TLV, but minimize exposure
Carcinogenicity: Suspected carcinogen (animal studies)

Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; protect from light
Container Type: HDPE or glass containers, UV-resistant if long-term storage
Shelf Life: 2–3 years under proper storage
Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation and skin contact; do not release into environment

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Banned for use in aquaculture and food-producing animals in EU, US, and several other jurisdictions
May still be used under veterinary supervision in ornamental fish
Subject to REACH restrictions and classified as hazardous under CLP
Must be labeled with appropriate hazard statements (H301, H411, etc.)

Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Poor; persistent in aquatic environments
Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic organisms
Bioaccumulation: Potential to bioaccumulate in aquatic species
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Evidence from animal studies suggests genotoxic and carcinogenic effects

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, lab coat, dust mask or respirator for powder
Handling Guidelines: Avoid dust formation; work in well-ventilated area or fume hood
Storage Measures: Store away from incompatible substances (oxidizers, acids); protect from UV light

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical help if respiratory symptoms occur
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
Eye Contact: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible but not highly flammable
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, CO₂, or dry chemical
Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, toxic fumes