Quirks of dye nomenclature. 13. Biebrich scarlet

ABSTRACT

Biebrich scarlet was the first commercial bis-azo dye when it appeared on the market in 1879 in Biebrich on Rhine, Germany. The dye’s early history is recounted here with details of the manufacturing process. The possibility that the dye exists in a keto form rather than an enol form is discussed. Application as a textile dye was soon followed by use as a biological stain and for medical applications. Efforts to decolorize the dye to reduce environmental impact are described.

Keywords:

• Biebrich scarlet
• biological staining
• chemical structure
• decolorization
• dye manufacture
• history
• medical use

Declaration of interest

The author reports no conflict of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of this paper.