Benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water is a commonly used preservative in laboratory research applications, with a molecular formula of C7H8O and a molar mass of approximately 108.14 g/mol. The solution typically has a purity of at least 99% and is stored at a temperature of 2-8°C to maintain its chemical stability. When purchasing benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water for research purposes, it is essential to verify the quality of the solution, including its chemical composition, purity, and sterility, to ensure reliable and accurate experimental results.
Chemical Identity and Classification
Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol that is commonly used as a preservative in bacteriostatic water due to its antimicrobial properties. It is classified as a primary alcohol and is soluble in water, making it an ideal preservative for aqueous solutions. The chemical structure of benzyl alcohol consists of a benzene ring attached to a hydroxymethyl group, which is responsible for its antimicrobial activity.
Molecular and Structural Properties
The molecular properties of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water are crucial in determining its effectiveness as a preservative. The solution has a density of approximately 1.04 g/cm³ and a boiling point of 205°C. The pH of the solution is typically adjusted to a range of 6.5-7.5 to ensure optimal antimicrobial activity. The chemical stability of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water is also influenced by the presence of other solutes, such as sodium chloride or potassium phosphate, which can affect its solubility and activity.
Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water are important in determining its suitability for laboratory research applications. The solution is typically clear and colorless, with a slight odor. It is compatible with a range of laboratory equipment and materials, including glass, plastic, and stainless steel. The viscosity of the solution is approximately 5.4 cP at 20°C, making it easy to pipette and handle.
Purity and Quality Verification
The purity and quality of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water are critical in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of experimental results. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry are commonly used to verify the purity and identity of the solution. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis should be provided by the supplier to confirm the chemical composition, purity, and sterility of the solution. Researchers can purchase research-grade benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water from reputable suppliers, such as Alpha Amino, which provides a per-lot Certificate of Analysis and ensures the highest quality and purity of its products.
Selecting and Verifying a Research-Grade Source
When selecting a research-grade source of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water, researchers should look for suppliers that provide transparent and detailed information about the chemical composition, purity, and sterility of the solution. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis should be provided, and the supplier should have a track record of providing high-quality products. Researchers should also verify the supplier’s reputation and expertise in providing research-grade chemicals, such as Alpha Amino, which is a US-based supplier of laboratory research chemicals.
Storage and Stability for Laboratory Handling
The storage and stability of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water are critical in maintaining its chemical stability and effectiveness as a preservative. The solution should be stored at a temperature of 2-8°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The solution should be handled using aseptic laboratory techniques, including pipetting and sterile transfer, to prevent contamination and ensure the accuracy and reliability of experimental results.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical purity of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water?
The typical purity of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water is at least 99%, as verified by HPLC and mass spectrometry. Researchers should look for suppliers that provide a per-lot Certificate of Analysis to confirm the chemical composition and purity of the solution.
How should benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water be stored and handled?
Benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water should be stored at a temperature of 2-8°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The solution should be handled using aseptic laboratory techniques, including pipetting and sterile transfer, to prevent contamination and ensure the accuracy and reliability of experimental results.
What are the key factors to consider when selecting a research-grade source of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water?
Researchers should look for suppliers that provide transparent and detailed information about the chemical composition, purity, and sterility of the solution. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis should be provided, and the supplier should have a track record of providing high-quality products.
How can the quality and purity of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water be verified?
The quality and purity of benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water can be verified using HPLC and mass spectrometry. Researchers should also look for suppliers that provide a per-lot Certificate of Analysis to confirm the chemical composition and purity of the solution.
What is the importance of using a reputable supplier for research-grade benzyl alcohol in bacteriostatic water?
Using a reputable supplier, such as Alpha Amino, ensures the highest quality and purity of the solution, which is critical in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of experimental results. Reputable suppliers provide transparent and detailed information about the chemical composition, purity, and sterility of the solution, and have a track record of providing high-quality products.
Alpha Amino products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption.
