Ethyl Violet
Ethyl Violet (CAS: 2390-59-2; Formula: C31H42N3Cl; Molar Mass: 492.14 g/mol) is a cationic triarylmethane dye and the ethyl homolog of crystal violet. It functions as a versatile histological and pathological stain. This dye has found application in staining pancreatic tissue and elastin, identifying Gram-negative bacteria, and in extractive-spectrophotometric analysis of anionic surfactants and copper. It is also used in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for protein counterstaining.
- IUPAC
- Basic violet 4,Ethyl purple 6B
- Synonyms
- Basic violet 4Ethyl purple 6B

Histological and Pathological Staining
Ethyl Violet is widely employed as a general histological and pathological stain. It has been specifically utilised for the staining of pancreatic tissue and elastin fibres, aiding in tissue differentiation and analysis.
Microbiological Staining
This dye serves as a valuable reagent in the detection of Gram-negative bacteria. Its specific affinity allows for clear visualisation and identification in microbiological samples.
Spectrophotometric Analysis
Ethyl Violet is used in extractive-spectrophotometric methods for the quantitative determination of various substances. Applications include the analysis of anionic surfactants and the determination of copper concentrations.
Electrophoresis Staining
In biochemical techniques, Ethyl Violet is used in conjunction with anionic dyes like zincon as a counterion dye for proteins in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, facilitating protein visualisation after separation.
| Molecular weight | 492.14 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C31H42N3Cl |
| Application | Ethyl violet is a cationic triarylmethane dye that is the ethyl homolog of crystal violet. It is a general histological and pathological stain. Ethyl violet has been used to stain pancreatic tissue and elastin,1 in the detection of gram negative bacteria,2 and as a reagent for the extractive-spectrophotometric determination of anionic surfactants.3 Ethyl violet induces mitochondrial permeability.4 It has been used in the extraction and spectrophotometric determination of copper.5 Along with the anionic dye zincon, ethyl violet is used in counterion dye of proteins in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.6 |
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Colour Index Number | 42600 |
|---|---|
| Absorption | λmax 595 nm |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Ethyl Violet used for?
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Ethyl Violet is used as a histological and pathological stain for tissues like pancreas and elastin, for detecting Gram-negative bacteria, in spectrophotometric determinations of anionic surfactants and copper, and as a counterion dye for proteins in gel electrophoresis.
What are the CAS number and formula for Ethyl Violet?
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The CAS number for Ethyl Violet is 2390-59-2, and its chemical formula is C31H42N3Cl.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Ethyl Violet at a research grade. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP.
What are the safety and handling precautions for Ethyl Violet?
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Ethyl Violet is classified with WGK Germany rating 3. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter is recommended.
Is Ethyl Violet a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Ethyl Violet is a controlled substance.
How is Ethyl Violet packed and shipped?
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Ethyl Violet is carefully packed and exported by Tech Serve Solutions to meet international shipping standards for chemical reagents.
How can I request a sample or quote for Ethyl Violet?
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To request a sample or a quote for Ethyl Violet, please contact our sales team via the website or provide your details through our inquiry form.
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