Auramine O is a bright yellow fluorescent dye widely used in microbiology, histology, and industrial applications. Known for its ability to selectively bind to certain biological structures and materials, it has become an indispensable reagent in laboratories and research environments worldwide.
At Reflecta Laboratory Supplies, we supply high-purity Auramine O suitable for medical, laboratory, and industrial use. Our product is trusted by professionals across South Africa and internationally for its quality, stability, and consistent performance.
What Is Auramine O?
Auramine O (chemical formula C₁₇H₂₂ClN₃) is a diarylmethane dye belonging to the class of basic dyes. It appears as a yellow crystalline powder and is highly soluble in water and ethanol. When exposed to ultraviolet light, it emits a bright yellow-green fluorescence, making it ideal for use in fluorescent microscopy and staining techniques.
- Chemical name: Auramine O (Basic Yellow 2)
- Chemical formula: C₁₇H₂₂ClN₃
- Molecular weight: 303.83 g/mol
- Appearance: Bright yellow powder
- Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and methanol
Its fluorescent properties and strong affinity for biological materials have made Auramine O a preferred dye in microbiological and diagnostic laboratories.
Applications of Auramine O
1. Microbiological and Medical Staining
The most well-known use of Auramine O is in the Auramine–Rhodamine stain, a fluorescent technique for detecting Mycobacterium species, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB).
In this method, Auramine O binds to the mycolic acid present in the bacterial cell wall, causing the organism to fluoresce bright yellow under UV illumination. This allows for rapid screening of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in clinical specimens, providing a more efficient diagnostic tool than traditional staining methods.
Reflecta Laboratory Supplies provides laboratory-grade Auramine O with consistent fluorescence intensity and purity, ensuring accurate and reliable diagnostic results.
2. Histology and Microscopy
In histology and cytology, Auramine O is used as a fluorescent counterstain for tissues and cell samples. It highlights structures such as cell walls, membranes, and connective tissues, providing contrast in fluorescence microscopy. Its high photostability and brightness make it a valuable reagent in research imaging.
3. Industrial and Textile Dyeing
Beyond biological sciences, Auramine O serves as a coloring agent in textiles, paper, and leather processing. Its strong yellow coloration and fastness properties make it useful for dyeing materials that require vibrant, long-lasting colors.
It is also applied in the production of pigments, inks, and fluorescent paints, where its bright luminescent qualities enhance visual impact and detection.
4. Mining and Material Analysis
In specialized industrial and mining laboratories, Auramine O may be used as a tracer dye or indicator for fluid movement studies, due to its visibility under UV light and stability in a range of chemical environments. Reflecta Laboratory Supplies supplies reliable, high-grade Auramine O suitable for research and field applications in mining and materials science.
Handling and Storage
Auramine O should be handled with care, as it can cause irritation and is classified as a potentially harmful substance with prolonged exposure. Proper laboratory safety measures — including gloves, eye protection, and working under fume extraction — should be followed.
Storage recommendations:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Keep containers tightly sealed
- Protect from light, moisture, and strong oxidizing agents
Reflecta Laboratory Supplies provides a detailed Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA) with each product to ensure safe handling and regulatory compliance. Order online today!
Why Choose Reflecta Laboratory Supplies?
As a South Africa–based supplier serving international markets, Reflecta Laboratory Supplies is a trusted source of high-quality laboratory-grade chemicals for laboratories, medical facilities, and industrial operations.
We ensure:
- Consistent purity and fluorescence performance
- COA and SDS provided with all shipments
- Flexible order sizes — from laboratory packs to bulk supply
- Reliable shipping across South Africa and worldwide
- Expert support for product selection and safe use
Whether you’re using Auramine O for diagnostic staining, fluorescence microscopy, or industrial dyeing, Reflecta Laboratory Supplies provides dependable products and outstanding service.
Customers can easily order laboratory-grade chemicals online through our secure website or place bulk orders for institutional and industrial use. Click here
Final Thoughts
Auramine O remains one of the most valuable fluorescent dyes in laboratory and industrial applications. From tuberculosis screening to textile dyeing and materials analysis, its brightness, sensitivity, and versatility make it a key reagent for modern science and manufacturing.
For consistent quality, trusted support, and fast global delivery, choose Reflecta Laboratory Supplies — your reliable partner for laboratory chemicals, reagents, and dyes.
Order laboratory-grade online today from Reflecta Laboratory Supplies.
We proudly supply laboratories, medical institutions, mining operations, and industrial clients across South Africa and around the world — delivering superior products with professional service and global reach.
