Title: Alcian Blue
CAS Registry Number: 12040-44-7
CAS Name: C.I. Ingrain Blue 1
Synonyms: C.I. 74240; alcian blue 8GX; michrome no. 24
Literature References: When R = toluyl, the mol wt is about 1300. Discovered by Haddock and Wood in 1944: Haddock,
Research 1, 685 (1948);
GB 586340 and
GB 587636 (both to ICI). During dyeing the X groups split off. Prepn:
Colour Index vol. 4 (3rd ed.) p 4620.
Properties: Greenish-black crystals with metallic sheen. When R = toluyl the solubility in water at 20° is about 9.5% w/w giving bright greenish-blue solutions. Soly in absolute ethanol about 6.0, Cellosolve 6.0, ethylene glycol 3.25. Practically insoluble in xylene.
Use: Gelling agent for lubricating fluids. As bacterial stain. To dye histiocytes and fibroblasts
in vivo: McManus, Bailie,
Fed. Proc. 22, no. 2, part I, p 190 (March-April 1963).