Phenol Red Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Phenol Red Extra Pure is a highly refined pH indicator dye widely used in biological and chemical laboratories. Appearing as a reddish crystalline powder, it changes color based on pH—yellow in acidic environments (pH < 6.8), red in neutral to slightly basic conditions (around pH 7.4), and fuchsia in more alkaline solutions (pH > 8.2).
This Extra Pure grade is particularly suited for cell culture media, where it helps monitor pH fluctuations during cell growth and metabolic activity. It is also employed in analytical chemistry, water quality testing, and titrations. Phenol Red is stable under normal storage conditions but should be kept in a dry, tightly sealed container away from strong acids or bases. Proper lab safety protocols—such as wearing gloves and goggles—are recommended when handling the powder or concentrated solutions.
USES
PRIMARY USES
- Serves as a pH indicator in cell culture media, showing color changes from yellow (acidic) to red (neutral) to fuchsia (alkaline).
- Widely used in microbiology and biochemistry to monitor pH changes due to microbial activity.
- Integral component in cell and tissue culture, helping detect contamination and metabolic activity.
- Utilized in aquarium and pool water testing kits to measure pH levels.
- Applied in clinical diagnostics, especially in phenol red thread tests for eye tear production.
SECONDARY USES
- Employed in educational labs for demonstrating acid-base reactions and pH scales.
- Occasionally used in urine analysis kits as a pH indicator.
- Used in formulation of test kits for enzymes or bacteria that alter pH in solution.
- Functions as a colorimetric marker in various experimental protocols.
- May be used in toxicology studies as a tracer to observe chemical exposure effects in cultures.
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Phenol Red
- CAS Number: 143-74-8
- HS Code: 3822.00.00
- Molecular Formula: C₁₉H₁₄O₅S
- Synonyms:
- Phenolsulfonphthalein
- PSP
- Sulfonphthalein
- C.I. 45350
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (powder or crystalline form)
- Color & Odor: Reddish to dark purple powder; odorless
- Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
- Melting Point: ~280 °C (with decomposition)
- Density: ~1.36 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Slightly soluble in water
- Soluble in alcohol and alkaline solutions
- pH Range (Indicator Use):
- Yellow at pH < 6.4
- Red at pH > 8.2
- Vapor Pressure: Negligible
- Flash Point: Not applicable (non-flammable solid)
- Autoignition Temperature: Not readily available
- Viscosity: Not applicable
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS Classification):
- Not classified as hazardous under GHS for general lab use
- May cause mild irritation to skin or eyes with prolonged contact
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits: Not established (low toxicity)
- Reactivity:
- Stable under normal conditions
- Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place
- Avoid moisture and direct sunlight
- Incompatible Materials:
- Strong oxidizers and strong acids
- Container Type: Tightly sealed plastic or glass containers
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date: 2–3 years under proper storage
- Special Handling Requirements:
- Use gloves and protective eyewear
- Avoid inhalation of dust
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- Listed under TSCA and REACH
- Not considered a hazardous chemical under OSHA regulations
- Transportation Restrictions:
- Not classified as hazardous for transport
- Waste Disposal Method:
- Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations
- Dilute solutions may be disposed via standard wastewater (verify with local authority)
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
- Low toxicity to aquatic life in small quantities
- Persistence in Environment:
- Degradable, but specific rates vary with environmental conditions
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not listed as carcinogenic or mutagenic by IARC or OSHA
- Biodegradability:
- Generally considered biodegradable in natural conditions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear lab coats, chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile), and protective safety goggles.
- Use a dust mask or work in a fume hood to avoid inhalation of fine particles.
Handling:
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.
- Prevent dust formation and avoid breathing dust.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Protect from direct sunlight and moisture.
- Keep away from strong oxidizing agents.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move the person to fresh air.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as coughing or difficulty breathing occur.
Skin Contact:
- Wash affected areas with plenty of water and soap.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse immediately with plenty of water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if it is easy to do so.
- Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not highly flammable but can burn if involved in fire.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemicals, CO₂, or foam.
- Water spray can be used to cool exposed containers.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and sulfur oxides upon combustion.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Avoid inhaling combustion fumes.