Malachite Green: Definition, Synthesis, Properties and Applications

What is Malachite Green?

Malachite green is a type of Triphenyl methane dye that is used as a dyestuff for materials like silk, leather, and paper. It is bright green and can be used as an antimicrobial agent in aquaculture.

Structure of malachite green

Synthesis of Malachite Green

Malachite green can be prepared by reaction of Benzaldehyde with N, N-dimethyl aniline in the presence of H₂SO₄ to form a triphenylmethane derivative. The subsequent oxidation with PbO₂ followed by treatment with an excess of concentrated HCl yields a green dye known as malachite green.

Synthesis of malachite green

Properties of Malachite Green

  1. Malachite green is green, crystalline, and water-soluble.
  2. Leuco form of malachite green is electrically neutral and undergoes a photoionization reaction that yields the cationic form of malachite green.
  3. It is toxic, thus not advisable to consume.

Applications of Malachite Green

  1. It is used as a dye to color materials like silk, leather, and paper.
  2. It is used as an antiseptic for bacterial infection.
  3. It is used to catch thieves. Anyone handling the contaminated money with anhydrous powder of malachite green will find that upon washing the hands, a green stain on the skin costs for several days.
  4. It is used as a pH indicator between pH 0.2-1.8

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