HEPES
HEPES (CAS: 7365-45-9; Formula: C8H18N2O4S; MW: 238.30 g/mol) is a zwitterionic organic chemical buffering agent widely utilized in biochemical research. It is particularly favoured for its minimal interaction with biological macromolecules and its pKa of 7.5 at 25°C, maintaining stable pH within the physiologically relevant range of 6.8 to 8.2. HEPES is suitable for applications such as mouse embryo cell culture and is a key component in diagnostic assay manufacturing.
- IUPAC
- 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-ethanesulfonic acid,N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-N′-(2-ethanesulfonic acid)
- Synonyms
- 4-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-1-ethanesulfonic acidN-(2-Hydroxyethyl)piperazine-N′-(2-ethanesulfonic acid)

Biological Buffering
HEPES is an effective zwitterionic buffer with a pKa of 7.5, making it suitable for maintaining a stable pH between 6.8 and 8.2 in biological systems. It is widely employed in cell culture media and biochemical assays due to its low metal ion binding and minimal interaction with biological molecules.
Cell Culture
This compound is recognised for its suitability in mouse embryo cell culture, contributing to stable culture conditions. Its buffering capacity helps to prevent detrimental pH fluctuations that can affect cell viability and growth in sensitive biological applications.
Diagnostic Assays
HEPES is a critical component in the manufacturing of diagnostic assays, where precise pH control is essential for assay performance and reliability. Its high purity and consistent buffering capacity ensure reproducible results.
Biochemical Research
As a biochemical reagent, HEPES is valuable in various research settings, including studies on apoptosis, cell cycle, and cell signalling. Its properties minimise interference with experimental outcomes, supporting accurate scientific investigations.
| Molecular weight | 238.30 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C8H18N2O4S |
| Assay | ≥99.5% (titration) |
| Density | 1.07 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble1 M at 20 °C, clear, colorless |
| pH | 5.0-6.5 (25 °C, 1 M in H2O) |
| Concentration | 1 M in H2O238 g/L HEPES in H2O |
| Loss on drying | ≤0.5% loss on drying, 110 °C |
| Impurities tested | DNases, none detectedRNases, none detectedinsoluble matter, passes filter testphosphatases, none detectedproteases, none detected |
| Suitability | suitable for mouse embryo cell culture |
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Gloves, type N95 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤50 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤50 mg/kg |
| Ignition residue | ≤0.1% (as SO4) |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Quality Level | ELITE |
|---|---|
| Pka 25 °C | 7.5 |
| Market Segment | Diagnostic Assay Manufacturing |
| Uv Absorption | λ: 260 nm Amax: 0.045λ: 280 nm Amax: 0.035 |
| Absorption | A33%/290, H2O ≤0.05 |
| Sterility | 0.2 μm filtered |
| Useful Ph Range | 6.8 - 8.2 |
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 HEPES used for?
+
HEPES is primarily used as a biological buffer to maintain stable pH in the range of 6.8-8.2, particularly in cell culture applications such as mouse embryo cell culture, and in the manufacturing of diagnostic assays.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for HEPES?
+
The CAS number for HEPES is 7365-45-9, and its chemical formula is C8H18N2O4S.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies HEPES at an ELITE quality level with an assay of ≥99.5% (titration). TSS does not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should HEPES be handled safely?
+
When handling HEPES, it is recommended to use protective equipment including eyeshields and gloves. A type N95 (US) or type P1 (EN143) respirator filter should be used if necessary. Refer to the safety data sheet for comprehensive handling information.
Is HEPES a controlled substance?
+
The provided data does not indicate that HEPES is a controlled substance.
How is HEPES packed and exported?
+
Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals. Specific packing and export details can be provided upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for HEPES?
+
To request a sample or a quote for HEPES, please contact the Tech Serve Solutions sales team directly through our website or designated contact channels.
▶ Related products
![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide (C8H13N3O4) — chemical structure, CAS 138472-01-2; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F138472-01-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexenamide
C8H13N3O4
Biochemicals & Reagents![(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide (C14H18N4O4) — chemical structure, CAS 162626-99-5; Biochemicals & Reagents, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F162626-99-5.png&w=3840&q=75)
(±)-(E)-4-Ethyl-2-[(Z)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexen-1-yl-nicotinamide
C14H18N4O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine hydrobromide
Biochemicals & Reagents

(±)-2-(p-Methoxyphenoxy)propionic acid
C10H12O4
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Amino-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene hydrobromide
C10H13NO2·HBr
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-2-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxydecanoic acid
C10H20O3
Biochemicals & Reagents
(±)-3-Hydroxyoctanoic acid
C8H16O3
Biochemicals & Reagents▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis