Osmium tetroxide
Osmium tetroxide (OsO4, CAS: 20816-12-0) is a volatile, crystalline solid with a molar mass of 254.23 g/mol. A powerful oxidizing agent, it is frequently used as a staining reagent in electron microscopy and for the catalytic dihydroxylation of alkenes in organic synthesis. This compound is also employed in hematology and histology for staining biological tissues.
- IUPAC
- Osmium oxide,Osmium tetroxide, microencapsulated
Electron Microscopy Staining
Osmium tetroxide is extensively used as a heavy metal stain for biological specimens in electron microscopy. Its high electron density provides excellent contrast for cellular structures, particularly lipids and membranes.
Organic Synthesis Reagent
This compound is a key reagent for the stereoselective syn-dihydroxylation of alkenes, forming vicinal diols. It is also used in related oxidative cleavage reactions.
Histology and Hematology
Osmium tetroxide serves as a fixative and staining agent in histological and hematological preparations. It is particularly effective for preserving and visualizing lipid-rich structures within cells and tissues.
Materials Science
In materials science, OsO4 can be used for surface modification and as an oxidizing agent in specific material synthesis processes.
| Molecular weight | 254.23 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | OsO4 |
| Assay | 99.8% |
| Form | powder |
| Boiling point | 130 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.0 g/mL at 20 °C |
| Concentration | 4% in H2O |
| Melting point | 39.5-41 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour pressure | 7 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | 8.8 (vs air) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
Hazard statements
- H300Fatal if swallowed
- H310Fatal in contact with skin
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H330Fatal if inhaled
- H334May cause allergy or asthma symptoms if inhaled
Precautionary statements
- P260Do not breathe dust, fume, gas, mist, vapours or spray
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P284Wear respiratory protection
- P301IF SWALLOWED
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2471 6.1 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | T+ |
| Risk statements (R) | 26/27/28-34 |
| Safety statements (S) | 7/9-26-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
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 Osmium tetroxide used for?
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Osmium tetroxide is primarily used as a staining reagent in electron microscopy, for the dihydroxylation of alkenes in organic synthesis, and in histology and hematology for staining biological tissues and preserving lipid structures.
What is the CAS number and formula for Osmium tetroxide?
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The CAS number for Osmium tetroxide is 20816-12-0, and its chemical formula is OsO4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Osmium tetroxide with an assay of 99.8%. This product is intended for research and laboratory use and is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How is Osmium tetroxide safely handled?
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Osmium tetroxide is highly toxic and corrosive. Handling requires strict adherence to safety protocols, including the use of full-face particle respirators (N100 US type), chemical-resistant gloves, and eye protection (eyeshields and faceshields). Ensure adequate ventilation in a fume hood. Consult the Safety Data Sheet for detailed handling information.
Is Osmium tetroxide a controlled substance?
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Osmium tetroxide is classified as a hazardous substance with significant toxicity and is regulated under UN 2471 for transportation. It is not typically scheduled as a controlled substance in the same manner as narcotics or psychotropics, but its handling and transport are strictly controlled due to its hazardous nature.
How is Osmium tetroxide packed, shipped, and exported?
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Osmium tetroxide is packed and shipped according to international regulations for hazardous materials, designated under UN 2471, Hazard Class 6.1. Tech Serve Solutions, as a global supplier, adheres to all relevant export and shipping compliance standards.
How can I request a quote or sample of Osmium tetroxide?
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To request a quote or a sample of Osmium tetroxide, please contact our sales department through the website or via direct inquiry, providing your specific requirements.
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