Bacteriostatic water, a crucial component in laboratory research, contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative, with a molecular formula of C7H8O and a molar mass of 108.14 g/mol. This solution is characterized by its appearance as a clear, colorless liquid, and its purity is verified through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry, ensuring a benzyl alcohol concentration of 0.9% (w/v) and a water purity of 99.9% or higher. The storage temperature for bacteriostatic water is typically between 15°C and 30°C, with a recommended shelf life of 2 years when stored properly.
Chemical Identity and Classification
Bacteriostatic water is classified as a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution, containing benzyl alcohol as an antimicrobial preservative. The chemical properties of benzyl alcohol, including its molecular structure and solubility, are crucial in understanding its role in preventing microbial growth in aqueous solutions. The chemical composition of bacteriostatic water is typically verified through spectroscopic analysis, including infrared (IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
Molecular and Structural Properties
The molecular structure of benzyl alcohol, a key component of bacteriostatic water, consists of a benzene ring attached to a hydroxymethyl group. This structure is responsible for its antimicrobial properties, as well as its solubility in water. The molecular weight of benzyl alcohol is 108.14 g/mol, and its density is approximately 1.04 g/cm³. Understanding the molecular and structural properties of benzyl alcohol is essential in verifying the concentration and purity of bacteriostatic water.
Physical Characteristics
Bacteriostatic water is characterized by its clear, colorless appearance and its low viscosity. The solution is sterile and non-pyrogenic, making it suitable for use in laboratory research settings. The physical characteristics of bacteriostatic water, including its pH and osmolality, are typically verified through routine quality control tests. The recommended storage conditions for bacteriostatic water, including temperature and humidity, are crucial in maintaining its stability and preventing microbial growth.
| Property |
Value |
| Molecular Formula |
C7H8O |
| Molar Mass |
108.14 g/mol |
| Appearance |
Clear, colorless liquid |
| pH |
5.5-7.0 |
| Osmolality |
250-300 mOsm/kg |
Purity and Quality Verification
The purity and quality of bacteriostatic water are verified through various analytical techniques, including HPLC, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopic analysis. These tests ensure that the solution meets the required standards for laboratory research use. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis is typically provided by reputable suppliers, such as research-grade compounds from Alpha Amino, to verify the quality and purity of the solution. The Certificate of Analysis includes information on the benzyl alcohol concentration, water purity, and other relevant parameters.
Selection and Verification of Research-Grade Source
When selecting a research-grade source of bacteriostatic water, it is essential to verify the quality and purity of the solution. Researchers should look for suppliers that provide a per-lot Certificate of Analysis, HPLC purity of 99.9% or higher, and mass-spectrometry identity confirmation. Additionally, the supplier should have transparent lot numbers and US-based sourcing. Alpha Amino, a US research-supply source, provides high-quality research-grade compounds, including bacteriostatic water, with a per-lot Certificate of Analysis and transparent lot numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the recommended storage temperature for bacteriostatic water?
The recommended storage temperature for bacteriostatic water is between 15°C and 30°C, with a shelf life of 2 years when stored properly. It is essential to follow the recommended storage conditions to maintain the stability and prevent microbial growth.
How can I verify the quality and purity of bacteriostatic water?
The quality and purity of bacteriostatic water can be verified through various analytical techniques, including HPLC, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopic analysis. A per-lot Certificate of Analysis provided by the supplier can also confirm the quality and purity of the solution.
What are the key parameters to consider when selecting a research-grade source of bacteriostatic water?
When selecting a research-grade source of bacteriostatic water, researchers should consider parameters such as HPLC purity, mass-spectrometry identity confirmation, transparent lot numbers, and US-based sourcing. A reputable supplier, such as Alpha Amino, can provide high-quality research-grade compounds with a per-lot Certificate of Analysis.
Can I use bacteriostatic water for other laboratory applications?
Bacteriostatic water is specifically designed for laboratory research use, and its applications may vary depending on the specific requirements of the experiment. Researchers should consult the relevant protocols and guidelines to determine the suitability of bacteriostatic water for their specific application.
How can I prepare a stock solution of bacteriostatic water for laboratory analysis?
A stock solution of bacteriostatic water can be prepared using aseptic laboratory technique, pipetting, and sterile transfer. The solution should be handled and stored according to the recommended guidelines to maintain its stability and prevent microbial growth.
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.
