DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide) is an important organic solvent and chemical widely used in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, biotechnology, and materials science. Below is a detailed introduction to DMSO:
1. Basic Properties
- Chemical Formula: (CH3)2SO
- Molecular Weight: 78.13 g/mol
- Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid with a slight garlic-like odor.
- Solubility:
- Miscible with water, ethanol, acetone, and many other organic and inorganic solvents.
- Known as a “universal solvent” due to its strong dissolving ability.
- Boiling Point: 189 °C
- Melting Point: 18.5 °C
2. Key Characteristics
- Excellent Solvent Ability:
- Capable of dissolving a wide range of organic, inorganic, and polymeric materials.
- Permeability:
- Exhibits good skin permeability, often used for transdermal drug delivery.
- Cryoprotection:
- Serves as a cryoprotectant for the freezing preservation of cells and tissues.
- Antioxidant Properties:
- Possesses certain antioxidant properties, useful for protecting biological samples.
- Stability:
- Stable at room temperature but may decompose under high temperatures or strong oxidants.
3. Applications
3.1 Pharmaceutical Field
- Drug Solvent:
- Used as a solvent in drug formulations to enhance solubility and bioavailability.
- Transdermal Drug Delivery:
- Acts as a penetration enhancer in topical drug formulations.
- Cryoprotectant:
- Used for the cryopreservation of cells, tissues, and organs.
3.2 Chemical Engineering
- Reaction Solvent:
- Serves as a solvent in organic synthesis reactions, improving reaction efficiency and selectivity.
- Extraction Agent:
- Used for the extraction and separation of organic compounds.
3.3 Biotechnology
- Cell Culture:
- Used as a solvent and additive in cell culture.
- Protein Crystallization:
- Utilized in protein crystallization experiments.
3.4 Materials Science
- Polymer Processing:
- Used as a solvent for polymers in film preparation and fiber spinning.
- Nanomaterial Preparation:
- Employed in the synthesis and dispersion of nanomaterials.
4. Safety and Storage
- Safety:
- DMSO can irritate the skin and eyes; protective equipment should be worn during handling.
- Avoid inhaling vapors; use in a well-ventilated area.
- Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption.
5. Common Brands
- Sigma-Aldrich
- Fisher Scientific
- TCI Chemicals
Summary
DMSO is a versatile solvent with extensive applications in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, biotechnology, and materials science. Its excellent dissolving ability and permeability make it an indispensable chemical in many experimental and industrial processes. If you have further questions, feel free to ask!
