Description
Bacteriostatic water for laboratory use
Bacteriostatic water is purified water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol. The benzyl alcohol acts as a preservative that inhibits bacterial growth, so a single vial can be opened and used more than once within a laboratory protocol. This is the main difference from sterile water, which has no preservative and is meant for single use.
In research settings it is commonly used as a diluent to reconstitute lyophilised compounds, including research peptides. Supplied in a sealed 10ml vial for laboratory use only.
Specifications
| Name | Bacteriostatic water |
|---|---|
| Composition | Purified water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol |
| Preservative | Benzyl alcohol 0.9% (CAS 100-51-6) |
| Appearance | Clear, colourless liquid |
| Volume | 10ml sealed vial |
| Use | Multi-use laboratory diluent |
Bacteriostatic water vs sterile water
Storage and handling
Store unopened vials at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, use aseptic technique and follow your laboratory’s validated protocol for in-use shelf life.
Frequently asked questions
What is bacteriostatic water?
Bacteriostatic water is purified water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol. The benzyl alcohol acts as a preservative that inhibits bacterial growth, which allows the vial to be opened and used more than once in a laboratory protocol.
What is the difference between bacteriostatic water and sterile water?
Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative, so a vial can be used more than once. Sterile water for laboratory use contains no preservative and is intended for single use once opened.
What is bacteriostatic water used for in the lab?
In laboratories, bacteriostatic water is commonly used as a diluent to reconstitute lyophilised research compounds, such as research peptides, when a multi-use vial is needed. Researchers should confirm that benzyl alcohol is compatible with their compound and assay.
How long does bacteriostatic water last once opened?
Shelf life once opened depends on handling. Many laboratories discard a multi-use vial 28 days after it is first opened, but you should follow your own laboratory’s validated protocol.
How should bacteriostatic water be stored?
Store unopened vials at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, use aseptic technique and follow your laboratory’s protocol.
Do you ship bacteriostatic water from the UK?
Yes. Orders placed before 3PM UK time, Monday to Friday, are normally dispatched the same day by Royal Mail Tracked 24. See our Shipping Policy.
Is this bacteriostatic water for human use?
No. This product is supplied for in vitro laboratory research only. It is not for human or veterinary use, and we do not provide administration or medical advice of any kind.
Research use only. This product is supplied strictly for in vitro laboratory research. It is not for human or veterinary use, and not for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. By purchasing, you agree to our Research Use Disclaimer.
