Phenazine Methosulphate stands out in the world of chemicals, labeled by the formula C13H13N3O4S and known to chemists for its vibrant color and energetic molecular structure. This compound often shows up as orange-to-yellow crystalline powder, sometimes in flakes, and even as a solid form that catches attention in any lab. You will spot its HS Code as 2934999099 across international shipping documents, making it easy to trace across borders. Its molecular weight clocks in at about 323.3 g/mol, offering a certain consistency for those scaling up experiments or processes. The density tends to hover near 1.5 g/cm³, so whether you’re pouring it into a measuring flask or scooping it from a jar, you can feel the weight in your hand, which speaks to its presence among lighter organic chemicals.
Structurally, Phenazine Methosulphate reveals a phenazine ring system core, modified by various functional groups that give it special purpose. It dissolves in polar solvents, especially water and alcohol, which helps both in preparing solutions and cleaning up. The compound appears as either powder or tiny crystals, something you notice under the light as it reflects off the surface in subtle, shifting hues. This matters in practical terms – solubility becomes a deal breaker when you are running assays or preparing raw materials for dye and electron transfer research. It stays stable at room temperature, though, based on my lab time, proper sealed storage is non-negotiable. I once saw an open vial absorb water from the air quickly, caking up, which affects both dosing and homogeneity.
Labs have relied on Phenazine Methosulphate as an electron carrier, notably in redox indicator reactions. Its ability to shift electrons in coupled reactions means biochemists gravitate towards it when studying dehydrogenase enzymes. Consumption spikes in diagnostics, especially colorimetric assays, where the clear color change delivers unmistakable results. In the chemical industry, it sometimes appears as an additive in certain dye synthesis or as a mediator in organic reactions. Its crystalline nature lets it mix with other materials or settle into solutions evenly, and the fine powder form helps speed up reaction rates, something you notice immediately in timed tests.
Safety becomes real when handling Phenazine Methosulphate. Wearing gloves, goggles, and a lab coat stands as more than procedure, after experiencing mild irritation during an afternoon of poorly-ventilated work. Inhalation doesn’t go unnoticed. Its powder can create dust, which bothers the lungs and eyes. Contact with skin leads to redness, and ingestion should be out of question at all times. Storage works best in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry area, away from acids or bases, since even small leaks and spills create headaches for clean-up. Use caution on benchtops, and restrict access to those who know its handling protocol. Waste disposal asks for chemical waste streams, never a trash bin. Accidental mixing with incompatible materials causes decomposition, which not only wastes good material but also poses a chemical hazard, sometimes releasing irritating fumes.
The base materials that shape Phenazine Methosulphate come from controlled sources, selected for purity, affecting the final quality. Any contamination during synthesis or processing causes lot rejection, based on hands-on quality checks. Raw phenazine derivatives and methosulphate salts need rigorous chemical analysis before production scales up. Many suppliers stamp ‘for research only’ on their labels, not just as a formality but due to regulatory and safety compliance. Tracking down a stable and reputable provider matters, as lower-grade batches put experiments at risk, based on bitter experience with inconsistent reaction yields from a poorly characterized lot.
Safer labeling, robust ventilation, and regular employee training could address many on-the-ground safety concerns. Investing in high-quality analytical validation during both procurement and storage promises better outcomes, not just for a smooth workflow, but also for meeting safety audits. Having a strict waste management plan, built on real incidents, guards against accidents that can escalate. For small labs, working together on bulk orders and storage protocols keeps costs and risks manageable. Sourcing from certified suppliers and running small batch tests before large-scale use keeps unexpected surprises at bay. With care, Phenazine Methosulphate continues proving itself in science and industry, offering more than just striking color but also reliable chemical action embedded in every crystal, flake, powder, or solution.
