Acetic acid 10% is a dilute solution of acetic acid in ultrapure water, which has applications in various fields including histology and life sciences. In histology, this solution can be used to fix tissue samples and cell cultures, where the moderate acid concentration allows for the preservation of structures and morphology.
Acetic Acid, with the chemical formula C₂H₄O₂ or CH₃COOH, is commonly known by several names, including Ethanoic Acid, Ethylic Acid, and Methanecarboxylic Acid. In its 10% solution form, it appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a distinct vinegar-like odor. This solution consists of 10% pure Acetic Acid by volume, dissolved in 90% purified water. It is freely soluble in water under normal conditions.
Uses of 10% Acetic Acid:
Uses of Acetic Acid (10% Solution) in Clinical Laboratories:
- Staining and Microscopy: Enhances cell visibility for microscopic examination.
- pH Adjustment: Maintains the correct pH in solutions and reagents.
- Cleaning and Decontamination: Cleans glassware and equipment, removing residues and contaminants.
- Fixative in Histology: Preserves tissue samples for histological analysis.
- Buffer Preparation: Used in creating acetate buffers for biochemical experiments.
- Specimen Preservation: Prevents decomposition of biological specimens.
- Acid-Base Titrations: Used as a standard solution in titrations.
- Diagnostic Tests: Creates acidic environments needed for certain diagnostic reactions.
Composition of 10% Acetic Acid:
The composition of Acetic Acid (10% solution) typically includes (To make 100 ml):
- Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH), Glacial: 10ml (10% by volume)
- Purified Water/Distilled water (H₂O): 90ml (90% by volume)
Preparation of 10% Acetic Acid:
- Measure Water: Fill a 100 ml graduated cylinder with water up to the 90 ml mark.
- Add Glacial Acetic Acid: Carefully add 10 ml of glacial acetic acid to the cylinder, bringing the total volume to 100 ml.
Caution: Glacial acetic acid is corrosive and emits irritating vapors. Use it in a well-ventilated area and avoid mouth-pipetting. - Mix: Transfer the solution to a leak-proof bottle and mix thoroughly.
- Label and Store: Label the bottle with the solution’s contents and store it at room temperature.
Precautions:
Precautions for Handling Acetic Acid (10% Solution):
- Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling vapors.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat, to protect against spills and splashes.
- Avoid Inhalation: Do not inhale the vapors. Use a fume hood if available.
- Handling: Never use mouth-pipetting. Use appropriate pipetting tools to handle the solution.
- Spill Response: Be prepared to neutralize spills with a suitable neutralizing agent and clean them up immediately.
- Storage: Store in a properly labeled, leak-proof container at room temperature, away from incompatible materials such as strong bases and oxidizers.
- First Aid: In case of contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if necessary. If ingested, do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately.
- Disposal: Dispose of acetic acid waste according to local regulations and guidelines for chemical disposal.
Uses of Acetic Acid (10% Solution) in Clinical Laboratories:
- Staining and Microscopy: Enhances visibility of cells and tissues under a microscope.
- pH Adjustment: Maintains the correct pH in solutions and reagents.
- Cleaning and Decontamination: Cleans and removes residues from laboratory glassware and equipment.
- Fixative in Histology: Preserves tissue samples for histological examination.
- Buffer Preparation: Used in making acetate buffers for biochemical assays.
- Specimen Preservation: Prevents decomposition and maintains the integrity of biological specimens.
- Acid-Base Titrations: Serves as a standard solution in titration processes.
- Diagnostic Tests: Provides acidic environments required for certain diagnostic reactions.
