Bacteriostatic water (BAC water) is commonly used alongside freeze-dried research compounds. But what exactly is it, and what is it used for? This page gives the background โ purely informational, in a laboratory context.
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What is bacteriostatic water?
Bacteriostatic water is sterile water with a small amount of benzyl alcohol added (typically 0.9%). That addition inhibits bacterial growth, so the water stays usable for longer after opening than plain sterile water.
Why is it used with research compounds?
Many research compounds are supplied as a freeze-dried powder. To study them in a laboratory setting, they have to be dissolved in a suitable solvent. Bacteriostatic water is the most widely used standard solvent in research for this purpose, precisely because of its longer shelf life after opening.
Sourcing it separately
Bacteriostatic water is a standard laboratory consumable that is available from laboratory suppliers. Have a look at our shop for our range of research compounds โ intended strictly for research purposes.