We dont have HPLC in our lab. Some chemical analysis will be of big help. I added some reducing agents to see if it stops oxidizing my reagent. Now I will have to wait a month to see some coloration. Is there a faster way to detect it? We don't have any analytical instruments in our lab
If it is a solid, you can start with something simple like a melting point.
TLC should be a way to check for decomposition using some general developing reagent. Based on you comment: "I added some reducing agents to see if it stops oxidizing my reagent" We can assume you reagent is susceptible to oxidation. You can check UV spectra before and after the addition of the reducing agent, also TLC. Sometimes, if it solid you can recrystallize to purify. Being more specific we can look for the best possible solution.
We need to know something about your reagent to help you. For example, you can check the concentration of some molecules containg -SH groups (such as Glutathione, 2-mercapethanol and Dithiothreitol) by reacting them with 5,5'-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB; Ellman's Reagent). The reaction between these reducing agents with DTNB can be monitored at 412nm and the absorbance used to calculate the concentration of the solution.
If it is a solid, you can start with something simple like a melting point.
TLC should be a way to check for decomposition using some general developing reagent. Based on you comment: "I added some reducing agents to see if it stops oxidizing my reagent" We can assume you reagent is susceptible to oxidation. You can check UV spectra before and after the addition of the reducing agent, also TLC. Sometimes, if it solid you can recrystallize to purify. Being more specific we can look for the best possible solution.
No all reagents can be checked by TLC due to volatility or staining ability. So, NMR is one easy way to go if you have access to one. Another quick and reliable option is a to set up an easy reaction that normally works with that reagent. If reaction fails, your reagent is definitely bad. As many other people have already mentioned, it would be helpful to know the reagent you are working with to better assist you.
- Badges
- Science topic
- Similar topics
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry