Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-04-26 Origin: Site
C₂H₄N₄S (CAS 593-84-0), commonly known as Guanidine Thiocyanate, serves as a versatile white crystalline powder in biotechnology and chemical applications. While prized for its chaotropic properties in nucleic acid extraction, this compound demands careful handling to mitigate health and environmental risks. Let’s explore its critical characteristics and safety protocols.
Solubility & Stability
With remarkable water solubility (6M at 20°C) and ethanol compatibility, this compound forms clear solutions ideal for lab workflows. However, its light sensitivity necessitates amber glass storage at 20-25°C to prevent degradation. The material melts between 118-122°C and exhibits a mildly acidic pH (4.8-6.0) in saturated solutions.
Structural Considerations
The powder’s high density (1.57g/cm³) and hygroscopic nature require airtight containers to prevent caking. Field studies highlight that improper storage often leads to compromised batch integrity within weeks.
Location:Dedicated cabinets away from acids/oxidizers
Containers:Light-resistant vessels with moisture-proof seals
Environment:Maintain <25°C; monitor humidity with desiccant packs
Baseline:Nitrile gloves, splash goggles, lab coats
High-Risk Tasks:N95 respirators during powder transfers; chemical aprons for bulk handling
Isolate area and ventilate
Absorb using vermiculite or spill pads
Dispose via approved hazardous waste channels
Pro Tip:Never rinse spills—contaminated water amplifies environmental risks.
Skin Contact:Erythema, burns (onset: 5-30 mins)
Inhalation:Coughing, dyspnea; chronic exposure links to hepatic stress
Ingestion:Gastrointestinal necrosis (LD50: 450 mg/kg in rodents)
Decomposes above 300°C, emitting cyanide and sulfur oxides. Firefighting protocols mandate dry chemical extinguishers—water intensifies toxic runoff.
Aquatic LC50 values (96h):
Fish: 8.2 mg/L
Daphnia: 3.7 mg/L
Soil adsorption studies show 60-day persistence, disrupting microbial communities.
Eyes:Flush with saline (15 mins minimum)
Skin:Remove contaminated clothing; wash with pH-neutral soap
Inhalation:Administer oxygen if wheezing occurs
Activate facility containment systems
Evacuate upwind; inform responders about cyanide risks
Post-incident: Test air quality before re-entry
While indispensable for RNA isolation and protein denaturation, Guanidine Thiocyanate’s dual nature as both tool and toxin warrants respect. Recent industry audits reveal that 73% of exposure incidents stem from inadequate PPE during transfer operations. By pairing technical vigilance with ecological mindfulness, labs can leverage its benefits while upholding safety standards.
Remember:Regular staff training reduces incident rates by 40%—schedule refreshers quarterly.
