Methylene Blue Solution Extra Pure
Methylene Blue Solution Extra Pure is a ready-to-use aqueous formulation of high-purity methylene blue dye, ideal for laboratory, biological, and analytical applications. It is commonly employed as a vital stain in microscopy to highlight cellular components such as nuclei and mitochondria, especially in live or fixed cells. This solution also functions as a redox indicator in various chemical experiments and is used in microbiology for bacterial identification and differentiation. With its extra pure quality, the solution delivers consistent and precise staining results, making it a reliable tool for research, diagnostics, and teaching laboratories.
Methylene Blue Solution Extra Pure
Primary Uses:
- Biological Stain – Used directly as a prepared staining solution in microbiology and histology to highlight cell components, especially nuclei and cytoplasm.
- Bacteriological Applications – Commonly applied for identifying bacteria, particularly in simple staining protocols.
Secondary Uses:
- Aquarium & Hatchery Treatment – Used to treat fish eggs and freshwater fish against fungal and some parasitic infections.
- Educational Demonstrations – Ideal for quick cell staining in school and college laboratories.
- Visual Aid in Slide Preparation – Offers clarity in wet mount preparations for viewing under light microscopes.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Methylene Blue Solution
- Active Ingredient: Methylene Blue (C₁₆H₁₈ClN₃S)
- CAS Number: 61-73-4 (for Methylene Blue)
- Appearance: Deep blue liquid solution
- Odor: Odorless or faint
- Solubility: Completely soluble in water
- Grade: Extra Pure
- Concentration (typical): 0.1% to 1% w/v (may vary by supplier)
2. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- Eye Irritant (Category 2A)
- Skin Irritant (Category 2)
- Acute Toxicity – Oral (Category 4, in large doses)
- Hazard Statements:
- H302: Harmful if swallowed
- H315: Causes skin irritation
- H319: Causes serious eye irritation
- Precautionary Statements:
- P280: Wear protective gloves and eye protection
- P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES – Rinse with water for several minutes
- P301+P312: IF SWALLOWED – Call a POISON CENTER if unwell
- PPE Required:
- Gloves
- Protective eyewear
- Lab coat
- First Aid Measures:
- Eyes: Rinse with water, seek medical help if irritation persists
- Skin: Wash with soap and water
- Inhalation: Not likely a hazard, ensure good ventilation
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting
- Fire Hazard:
- Water-based, not flammable
- For dry residues, use water spray, CO₂, or dry chemical extinguishers
3. Storage & Handling
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in tightly closed bottles
- Keep away from light and heat
- Avoid freezing and contamination
- Handling Notes:
- Handle with care—stains are hard to remove
- Avoid contact with skin, clothes, and lab surfaces
4. Laboratory Applications
- Primary Uses:
- Microscopy stain (visualization of cellular structures and bacteria)
- Biochemical redox indicator
- Teaching and demonstration purposes
- Secondary Uses:
- Aquaculture treatment (parasitic/fungal control in fish)
- Redox reaction demonstrations in chemistry education
- Medical diagnostic applications (e.g., in methylene blue dye tests)
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and chemical splash goggles.
- Use in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
- Prevent ingestion and inhalation of vapors or mist.
- Wash hands thoroughly after use.
- Handle with care to prevent spills and stains.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Protect from light, heat, and incompatible substances (e.g., strong oxidizers or acids).
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move the person to fresh air immediately.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms like difficulty breathing occur.
Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove stained or contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and get medical attention.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical advice immediately.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- The aqueous solution is non-flammable, but organic components may burn under fire conditions.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use CO₂, dry chemical, foam, or water spray depending on surrounding materials.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit carbon oxides, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides when burned.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear during firefighting.