Lithium acetate dehydrate

Introduction

Lithium acetate dehydrate is used as a buffer component in the modified ninhydrin reagent for amino analysis by ion-exchange chromatography. It is used as a catalyst in organic reactions, alkyd resin and acrylic polymer production and as an anticorrosion agent in molding polyphenylene sulfide resins as well as in the separation of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized for the preparation of diuretics. This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.

Applications

Lithium acetate dihydrate is used as a buffer component in the modified ninhydrin reagent for amino analysis by ion-exchange chromatography. It is used as a catalyst in organic reactions, alkyd resin and acrylic polymer production and as an anticorrosion agent in molding polyphenylene sulfide resins as well as in the separation of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized for the preparation of diuretics.

Solubility

Soluble in water and ethanol.

Notes

Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.

Specifications

Melting Point : 54°C to 57°C
Density : 1.3
Quantity : 250 g
Beilstein : 3564320
Merck Index : 14,5521
Solubility Information : Soluble in water and ethanol.
Formula Weight : 102.01 (65.98 Anhydrous)
Percent Purity : 99%
Chemical Name or Material : Lithium acetate dihydrate

Properties

Here are its key properties and applications:
Electrophoresis Buffer: Lithium acetate serves as a buffer in gel electrophoresis, allowing DNA and RNA fragments to migrate through the gel matrix. Compared to other buffers like TAE, lithium acetate gels exhibit lower electrical conductivity and can be run at higher speeds (5-30V/cm). This faster electrophoresis reduces the overall analysis time.
Cell Wall Permeabilization: Lithium acetate is also employed to permeabilize the cell walls of yeast during DNA transformation. Its beneficial effect is attributed to its chaotropic properties, which denature DNA, RNA, and proteins.

Conclusion

Lithium acetate dihydrate (LiOAc·2H₂O) is a salt composed of lithium ions and acetic acid. It is commonly used in laboratory settings, particularly in gel electrophoresis of DNA and RNA. In summary, lithium acetate dihydrate plays a crucial role in molecular biology research, facilitating DNA analysis and manipulation in the lab.