Safranin is a high-grade reagent supplied by Micromaster. Few other chemical names used to denote this reagent include, basic red 2, safranine O, safranin T, gossypimine and safranine T. It is available in the form of a dark reddish brown solid with a pungent odour. This compound is soluble in water. Safranines are the azonium compounds of symmetrical 2,8-dimethyl-3,7-diaminophenazine. They can be obtained by the joint oxidation of one molecule of a para-diamine with two molecules of a primary amine; by the condensation of para-aminoazo compounds with primary amines, and by the action of para-nitrosodialkylanilines with secondary bases such as diphenylmetaphenylenediamine. It is stable if stored according to the recommended conditions. If exposed to excessive heat or in case of burning, it can generate hazardous decomposition products like, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and fumes. It is incompatible with strong acids and strong bases. It is hazardous in case of skin contact (irritant), of eye contact (irritant), of ingestion and of inhalation.

• CAS No. 477-73-6
• Quantity provided: 25 g/pack
• Molecular formula: C₂₀H₁₉ClN₄
• Molecular weight: 350.85 g/mol

Safranin is a biological stain used in histology and cytology. It is widely used as a counterstain in some staining protocols as it colours all cell nuclei red. Safranin is the classic counterstain in both Gram stains and endospore staining. It can also be used for the detection of cartilage, mucin and mast cell granules. In analytical chemistry, it is used as a redox indicator.