Solvent Black 3

Sudan Black B structure

Solvent Black 3, commonly known as Sudan Black B, is a synthetic dye used primarily for staining lipids and lipoproteins in biological specimens. It is a member of the Sudan dyes, which are a group of lipid-soluble dyes used for coloring oils, fats, waxes, and plastics. Solvent Black 3 is particularly noted for its application in histology and cytology.

Chemical Properties

Solvent Black 3 is a diazo dye, which means it contains two azo groups (-N=N-) as part of its molecular structure. The chemical formula for Sudan Black B is C₂₉H₂₄N₆O, and it has a molecular weight of approximately 456.54 g/mol. The dye is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and benzene.

Applications

Histological Staining

In histology, Solvent Black 3 is used to stain lipids in tissue sections. It is particularly useful for identifying fat emboli in lung tissue and for staining myelin in nerve tissue. The dye binds to the lipid components, providing a contrast that allows for the visualization of lipid-rich structures under a microscope.

Cytological Staining

In cytology, Sudan Black B is used to stain lipids in cells. It is often employed in the study of leukocytes, where it helps to differentiate between different types of white blood cells based on their lipid content. This is particularly useful in the diagnosis of certain types of leukemia.

Industrial Uses

Beyond its biological applications, Solvent Black 3 is also used in the industrial sector for coloring oils, waxes, and plastics. Its ability to dissolve in non-polar solvents makes it suitable for these applications.

Safety and Handling

As with many synthetic dyes, handling Solvent Black 3 requires caution. It should be used in a well-ventilated area, and appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn to prevent skin and eye contact. The dye should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances.

Related Pages

• Sudan dyes
• Histology
• Cytology
• Lipid
• Leukocyte