Alcohol (Ethanol) 95%, commonly known as alcohol, is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid. In clinical laboratories, 95% ethanol refers to a solution that contains 95% ethanol by volume and 5% water.
Well suited for routine laboratory and analysis. Solveco Ethanol (CH3CH2OH) 95% Analytical Grade is fermented and rectified ethanol with very high purity. This technical quality product has a natural origin. Denatured Ethanol 95% is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid with a distinctive odor. It reacts explosively with strong oxidizing agents and can react violently with metals to produce hydrogen. It may damage gaskets, painted surfaces, protective and sealing grease coatings, materials, rubber and some plastics.
| Synonym | ethyl alcohol, alcohol, methylcarbinol, grain alcohol, ethyl hydroxide, ethyl hydrate, algrain, alcohol, anhydrol, tecsol |
Uses of Alcohol (Ethanol) 95%:
- Antiseptic and Disinfectant: Disinfects surfaces and instruments; used on skin for antisepsis.
- Fixative in Histology: Preserves tissue samples by coagulating proteins.
- Tissue Dehydration: Removes water from tissues in graded concentrations during processing.
- Solvent for Staining: Used in the preparation and application of stains and dyes.
- Extraction Solvent: Extracts biological compounds like nucleic acids and proteins.
- Specimen Preservation: Preserves biological specimens by inhibiting microbial growth.
- Reagent Preparation: Dilutes and prepares various laboratory reagents.
- Cleaning Agent: Cleans laboratory glassware and equipment.
- Instrument Decontamination: Decontaminates lab instruments, particularly in microbiology.
- Cryoprotection: Protects biological samples during freezing processes.
Composition of Alcohol (Ethanol) 95%:
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ethanol, absolute | 95ml (95%) |
| Distilled water | 5ml (5%) |
Preparation of Alcohol (Ethanol) 95%:
- Measure Ethanol: Using a 100 ml graduated cylinder, carefully measure 95 ml of absolute ethanol.
Caution: Absolute ethanol is highly flammable. Handle it with care and ensure it is used well away from any open flames or heat sources. - Add Water: Add 5 ml of distilled water to the cylinder, bringing the total volume to the 100 ml mark.
- Mixing: Transfer the mixture to a leak-proof bottle and mix well to ensure homogeneity.
- Labeling and Storage: Label the bottle with “95% Ethanol” and include a Flammable warning. Store the bottle at room temperature in a safe, well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources.
Precautions:
Flammability:
Keep away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources.
Proper Ventilation:
Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of vapors.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Wear gloves, safety goggles, and a lab coat to protect against splashes and skin contact.
Handling and Storage:
Store in a tightly closed, properly labeled container in a cool, dry place.
Avoid Ingestion:
Do not consume ethanol; it is not safe for ingestion.
Spill and Accident Response:
Clean up spills immediately with appropriate absorbent materials; use PPE.
Labeling:
Clearly label containers with content and hazard warnings.
Disposal:
Dispose of waste according to local regulations; do not pour down the drain.
Emergency Procedures:
Know the location and use of safety equipment, like fire extinguishers and eyewash stations.
Uses of Alcohol (Ethanol) 95% in Clinical Laboratories:
Antiseptic and Disinfectant:
Disinfects surfaces, instruments, and skin before procedures.
Fixative in Histology:
Preserves tissue samples by coagulating proteins.
Tissue Dehydration:
Removes water from tissue samples in preparation for embedding.
Solvent for Staining:
Used in the preparation and application of stains and dyes.
Extraction Solvent:
Extracts biological compounds such as nucleic acids and proteins.
Specimen Preservation:
Prevents microbial growth and degradation of biological specimens.
Reagent Preparation:
Dilutes and prepares various reagents used in laboratory assays.
Cleaning Agent:
Cleans laboratory glassware and equipment.
Instrument Decontamination:
Decontaminates lab instruments, particularly in microbiology and molecular biology.
Cryoprotection:
Protects biological samples during freezing processes.
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