Neutral Red Solution Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Neutral Red Solution Extra Pure is a high-purity, ready-to-use solution of the pH indicator dye Neutral Red, widely employed in biological, biochemical, and analytical laboratories. Known for its distinct color change—red in acidic environments and yellow in alkaline—it is commonly used to stain lysosomes in viable cells, making it invaluable in cell viability assays, cytotoxicity studies, and microscopic cell structure investigations.
This Extra Pure grade ensures excellent clarity and precision in results, especially in sensitive microbiological and histological procedures. It is frequently used in conjunction with culture media to observe metabolic activities and in vital staining techniques to differentiate between live and dead cells. Proper handling involves storing it in tightly sealed amber containers away from light and heat to maintain its stability and effectiveness.
USES
PRIMARY USES:
- Biological stain for lysosomes and live cell imaging.
- Vital dye in cytological and histological studies.
SECONDARY USES:
- pH indicator in analytical chemistry.
- Teaching aid in biology and microbiology labs.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Neutral Red (solution)
- CAS Number: 553-24-2 (for Neutral Red dye)
- HS Code: 3204.12.00
- Molecular Formula: C₁₅H₁₇ClN₄ (for Neutral Red dye)
- Synonyms: Toluylene Red, Basic Red 5, C.I. 50040, Neutral Red Stain
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Liquid solution
- Color & Odor: Red to reddish-purple solution; mild odor
- Boiling Point: Depends on solvent (typically water/alcohol base ~100 °C)
- Melting Point: Not applicable (solution)
- Density: ~1.0–1.1 g/cm³ (depending on concentration and solvent)
- Solubility: Fully miscible in water and alcohol
- pH Level: ~6.8–8.0 (depending on concentration)
- Vapor Pressure: Low (water-based)
- Flash Point: Non-flammable (if aqueous solution)
- Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
- Viscosity: Similar to water unless thickened
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS):
- Eye Irritation (Category 2B)
- Skin Irritation (Category 2, depending on concentration)
- Not classified as flammable or acutely toxic in dilute form
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: Not established for dilute solutions; treat as low-hazard dye
- Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid oxidizers and strong acids/bases
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed bottle, away from light and heat
- Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, acids, bases
- Container Type: Amber glass or plastic bottle
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date: ~2 years under proper storage
- Special Handling Requirements: Use gloves and lab coat; avoid skin and eye contact
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- Not classified as hazardous under many global regulations in dilute form
- Use and disposal may be regulated in lab or clinical environments
- Transportation Restrictions: Not classified as hazardous for transport if aqueous and dilute
- Waste Disposal Method: Dispose via drain with excess water (small amounts), or according to local lab disposal procedures
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Low in dilute form; avoid direct discharge into waterways
- Persistence in Environment: Dye may persist in soil or water in higher concentrations
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not classified as carcinogen in dilute solution
- No strong evidence of mutagenicity at low concentrations
Biodegradability: Moderate; breakdown depends on environmental conditions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile or latex gloves, and protective safety goggles.
- Use a fume hood or ensure adequate ventilation during handling.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
- Do not breathe vapors or mist.
- Use only in well-ventilated areas.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location.
- Protect from light, heat, and incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers and acids.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move the exposed person to fresh air.
- Keep at rest and seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
- Wash affected areas with soap and plenty of water.
- Remove contaminated clothing and seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical attention immediately.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not classified as highly flammable, but components may be combustible.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), or alcohol-resistant foam.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit toxic fumes such as carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides upon thermal decomposition.
Firefighter Protection:
- Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective clothing.
Avoid inhalation of combustion vapors.