Overview
Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane (CAS 77-86-1 ), commonly known as Tris or Tromethamine, is an organic amine base used across pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and life science manufacturing. It functions primarily as a pH buffering and neutralizing agent.
This versatile compound maintains stable pH conditions in formulations and biological systems where precise control is critical. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, Tromethamine is used to neutralize acidic drug substances and as a buffering agent.
It is frequently utilized in injectable formulations, ophthalmic solutions, and topical preparations. Cosmetic formulators use Tris to adjust and stabilize pH in creams, gels, and emulsions, particularly where carbomer polymers require neutralization.
Biotechnology and life science applications rely on Tris buffers, most notably Tris-HCl, as the standard medium for DNA/RNA electrophoresis. It is also essential for protein extraction and cell lysis protocols in laboratory settings.
The material functions as a preservative booster in certain personal care systems, enhancing the efficacy of primary preservatives at controlled pH ranges. This makes it a valuable additive for long-term product stability.
Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane is supplied as a white crystalline powder. It is available in USP , Ph.Eur. , and BP grades for pharmaceutical use, as well as high-purity molecular biology grades for research.
These specialized grades meet specific electrophoresis and buffer preparation standards. Technical grade is also available for industrial pH adjustment applications where high-purity pharmaceutical standards are not required.
Contact us for supply of Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 171-172 °C |
| Boiling Point | 219-220 °C @ Press: 10 Torr |
| Density | 1.02835 g/cm³ @ Temp: 25.00 °C |
| Flash Point | 219-220°C/10mm |
| Appearance | White, crystalline solid. PH (0.1M aqueous solution) 10.6, corrosive to copper, brass, aluminum. Solubility in water 80 g/100 cc (20C). Combustible. |
| Color | white |
| Form | crystalline |
| Water Solubility | 550 g/L (25 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.0267 hPa (20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.4170 (estimate) |
| pH | 10.5-12.0(4 m in water, 25 °C) |
| Log P | -2.515 (est) |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation Precautionary Statements P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29221980 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Other Names
Related Products
Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 77-86-1
- EC Number
- 201-064-4
- Mol. Weight
- 121.14
- HS Code
- 29221980
- Category
- Alkalis & Bases