Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – D-Mannitol LR
Quantity/Pack Size – 500 g
Form – White crystalline powder
Grade – Laboratory Reagent (LR)
Application – Biochemical research, osmolarity adjustments, pharmaceutical intermediates
Product Overview
D-Mannitol LR is a high-purity, laboratory-grade sugar alcohol widely recognized for its stability and non-hygroscopic properties, making it indispensable in biochemical and pharmaceutical applications. This white crystalline powder is chemically inert under standard conditions, ensuring consistent performance in sensitive assays and formulations. Its low reactivity and high solubility in water (18% at 25°C) allow for precise osmolarity adjustments in cell culture media, protein stabilization, and diagnostic reagent preparation. The LR grade designation guarantees minimal impurities, with heavy metals, chloride, and sulfate content strictly controlled to meet analytical standards. Unlike common sugars, D-Mannitol does not undergo Maillard reactions, preserving the integrity of biological samples during long-term storage or experimental procedures. Its role as a non-metabolizable carbohydrate analog further enhances its utility in metabolic studies and cryopreservation protocols. The 500 g pack size offers an optimal balance between bulk efficiency and bench-scale convenience, reducing the need for frequent reordering while maintaining freshness. Store in a tightly sealed container under cool, dry conditions to prevent moisture absorption and degradation.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between D-Mannitol LR and food-grade mannitol?
D-Mannitol LR is specifically purified for laboratory use, with controlled levels of heavy metals, residual solvents, and other impurities that could interfere with analytical results. Food-grade mannitol undergoes different processing standards and may contain additives unsuitable for research applications. The LR grade ensures consistency in experimental reproducibility, while food-grade variants prioritize safety for human consumption over analytical precision.
2. Can this product be used for preparing isotonic solutions?
Yes, D-Mannitol LR is commonly employed to prepare isotonic solutions due to its predictable osmotic pressure. A 5.5% (w/v) solution in water yields approximately 300 mOsm/L, closely matching physiological osmolarity. Its non-ionic nature prevents interference with cellular membranes, making it preferable to ionic salts like NaCl in sensitive biological systems. Always verify the exact concentration required for your specific application, as osmolarity can vary with temperature and solvent composition.
3. How does D-Mannitol compare to sorbitol in lab applications?
While both are sugar alcohols, D-Mannitol offers distinct advantages in laboratory settings. It exhibits lower hygroscopicity than sorbitol, reducing moisture-related degradation during storage. Mannitol’s crystalline structure also provides better flow properties for weighing and dispensing. In biochemical assays, mannitol’s slower metabolic conversion in most organisms minimizes background interference, whereas sorbitol may undergo enzymatic oxidation. For cryopreservation, mannitol’s higher glass transition temperature can improve vitrification outcomes in certain protocols.
4. What precautions should be taken when handling D-Mannitol LR?
Although generally low-hazard, standard laboratory practices should be followed. Wear gloves and safety goggles to avoid skin or eye irritation from dust particles. Work in a well-ventilated area, as fine powders can become airborne. While non-toxic, avoid inhalation of dust to prevent respiratory discomfort. In case of spills, collect mechanically rather than using water to prevent slip hazards from dissolved mannitol. Store away from strong oxidizing agents, as incompatible reactions may occur under extreme conditions.
5. Is this product suitable for HPLC or GC analysis?
D-Mannitol LR can serve as a standard or mobile phase modifier in HPLC applications, particularly for carbohydrate analysis or chiral separations. Its UV transparency and lack of ionic groups make it compatible with common detectors like RI or ELSD. For GC, derivatization (e.g., silylation) is typically required due to mannitol’s high polarity and low volatility. The LR grade’s purity minimizes ghost peaks or baseline drift, but always filter solutions through 0.22 µm membranes before injection to remove particulate contaminants.
