Description
Malachite Green is a synthetic dye belonging to the triarylmethane class. Here’s a detailed description:
Chemical Properties:
- IUPAC Name: [4-[(4-dimethylaminophenyl)-phenyl-methyl]-N,N-dimethylaniline]
- Chemical Formula: C₂₃H₂₅ClN₂ (as chloride salt) or C₂₃H₂₅N₂ (free base)
- Appearance: Dark green crystalline powder or greenish-blue solution.
- Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and organic solvents.
- pH Sensitivity: Changes color with pH (green in neutral/acidic, colorless in basic conditions).
Uses:
- Aquaculture & Fisheries: Historically used as an antifungal/antiparasitic agent (now banned in many countries due to toxicity).
- Textile Dye: For silk, wool, and leather.
- Biological Stain: In microscopy for staining bacteria and tissues.
- Disinfectant: Limited use due to safety concerns.
Toxicity & Safety:
- Carcinogenic: Potential to cause liver tumors (classified as hazardous).
- Environmental Harm: Toxic to aquatic life; persistent in water.
- Regulations: Banned in food-producing animals in the EU, USA, and other regions.
Alternatives:
Safer substitutes like methylene blue or acriflavine are often recommended in aquaculture.
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