- What it is. This saline solution contains 0.9 g of sodium chloride per 100 mL of water (0.9% w/v) and is available in a single gallon or a case of four gallons. It is a clear, colorless laboratory saline used to rinse, dilute, and suspend biological and analytical samples.
- Why 0.9%. At 0.9% (w/v), the solution contains about 154 millimoles of sodium chloride per liter and is approximately isotonic with human and many animal body fluids, roughly 308 mOsm/L (calculated). Cells placed in it neither swell nor shrink significantly, which is why it is known as normal or physiological saline.
- Laboratory, not medical, use. This product is a laboratory reagent. Do not use it for injection, intravenous use, or as an eyewash unless the label specifically states that it is sterile and approved for that purpose. Confirm sterility status on the label before any biological application that requires it.
- Rinsing and washing cells. Use isotonic saline to wash cells, tissues, and specimens without osmotic damage; rinse sample containers and equipment; and resuspend pellets after centrifugation before further processing.
- Diluent for samples. In microbiology and clinical labs, saline dilutes samples for serial dilutions, standardizes bacterial suspensions to turbidity standards, and dilutes samples for counting and testing.
- Simple composition. Saline contains only sodium chloride and water, without buffers or nutrients. For applications that require pH control or added ions, a buffered saline such as phosphate-buffered saline may be more appropriate.
- Sizes. The single gallon (NS6188-128) suits routine bench use, while the case of four gallons (NS6188-438.1) supports labs with steady daily demand and reduces reordering.
- Storage and contamination. Saline has no preservatives, so microorganisms can grow once the container is opened. Use clean dispensing practices, keep the container closed, and discard solution that turns cloudy or shows growth.
- Where it is used. Laboratory saline is used in microbiology, cell and tissue culture preparation, clinical and veterinary labs, food testing, teaching labs, and general rinsing and dilution work where an isotonic, non-reactive solution is needed.
Technical Specifications
| Chemical Name | Sodium chloride, aqueous solution |
| CAS Numbers | 7647-14-5 (sodium chloride); 7732-18-5 (water) |
| EC Number (NaCl) | 231-598-3 |
| Synonyms | Normal saline, physiological saline, isotonic saline |
| Formula (active) | NaCl |
| Molecular Weight (active) | 58.44 g/mol |
| Concentration | 0.9% (w/v), 9 g/L |
| Molarity | About 154 mM (calculated) |
| Osmolarity | About 308 mOsm/L (calculated, ideal) |
| Tonicity | Approximately isotonic with body fluids |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Sterility | Confirm on label (laboratory reagent) |
| Package Sizes | 1 gallon; case of 4 gallons |
Available Variants
- NS6188-128: 1 gallon for routine bench use.
- NS6188-438.1: Case of 4 gallons for steady daily demand.
Applications / Common Uses
- Cell and specimen washing: Rinses without osmotic damage.
- Serial dilutions: Serves as a diluent in microbiology.
- Suspension preparation: Standardizes bacterial suspensions.
- Equipment rinsing: Rinses sample containers and instruments.
- Teaching labs: Demonstrates osmosis and tonicity.
Storage, Handling & Shipping
Store tightly closed at room temperature, protected from contamination. Saline contains no preservative, so once opened, use clean dispensing practices and discard any solution that becomes cloudy or shows microbial growth.
- Incompatible materials: None significant under normal laboratory use.
- Personal protection: Standard laboratory gloves and eye protection.
- Spill response: Wipe up and rinse the area with water.
- First aid: Eyes: rinse with water if irritation occurs.
Related Categories & Services
- Shop Buffers, Standards & Solutions for related products in this category.
- Explore General Chemistry and ACS Grade Laboratory Chemicals.
- Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) Program: Lab Pro can stock, track, and replenish this item on site so it never runs out. Contact info@labproinc.com or 888-452-2776 to set up a VMI assessment.
