Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – N,N,N’,N’-Tetramethylethylenediamine, 99.5%, purified by redistillation, AcroSeal® Quantity/Pack Size – 100ML Form – Liquid Grade – 99.5% (Redistilled) Application – Polymerization catalyst, gel electrophoresis, biochemical research
Product Overview
N,N,N’,N’-Tetramethylethylenediamine (TEMED), offered at 99.5% purity through meticulous redistillation, is a high-grade laboratory reagent designed for applications demanding exceptional consistency and minimal impurities. This clear, colorless liquid serves as a critical catalyst in free-radical polymerization reactions, particularly in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), where it accelerates the formation of gels by interacting with ammonium persulfate (APS). Its high volatility and strong basicity (pKa ~8.8) make it ideal for precise control over reaction kinetics, ensuring reproducible results in molecular biology and protein analysis workflows. The AcroSeal® packaging guarantees long-term stability by minimizing exposure to moisture and oxygen, preserving the reagent’s integrity until use. Compatible with most aqueous and organic solvent systems, TEMED is soluble in water, alcohols, and hydrocarbons, though it should be stored under inert conditions to prevent oxidative degradation. Its low metal ion content (<1 ppm) further enhances suitability for sensitive applications like DNA sequencing or enzyme assays. Always handle under a fume hood due to its pungent amine odor and potential respiratory irritation at high concentrations.
FAQs
1. What is the shelf life of TEMED when stored unopened?
When stored in its original AcroSeal® packaging at 2–8°C, unopened TEMED retains its specified purity for up to 24 months. Exposure to air or repeated opening may reduce stability.
2. Can this TEMED grade be used for non-denaturing gel electrophoresis?
Yes, the 99.5% purity and low impurity profile make it suitable for both denaturing and non-denaturing PAGE systems, provided the pH and buffer conditions are optimized for your specific application.
3. How does redistillation improve TEMED’s performance compared to standard grades?
Redistillation removes trace volatile contaminants, residual solvents, and oxidative byproducts, resulting in a reagent with tighter specification control and reduced lot-to-lot variability.
4. Is this TEMED compatible with Tris-based buffers?
Yes, but pre-testing is recommended as TEMED’s basicity can alter buffer pH. For Tris-glycine systems, adjust the TEMED concentration to maintain the desired polymerization rate.
5. What precautions should be taken when handling TEMED?
Use in a well-ventilated fume hood with nitrile gloves and safety goggles. Avoid skin contact, as it can cause sensitization, and never pipette by mouth due to its corrosive nature.
