Overview
Brazilin is a natural red pigment extracted from the heartwood of Brazilwood trees (Caesalpinia echinata), native to South America. Historically, it was a highly valued dye during the colonial era, often referred to as 'Brazilwood red.' Today, it is used in niche applications where natural dyes are preferred over synthetic alternatives. Chemically, brazilin belongs to the class of neoflavonoids. It oxidizes to form brazilein, which provides a deeper red hue. The compound is prized for its biodegradability and low environmental impact compared to synthetic dyes.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Brazilin appears as a reddish-brown crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 286.28 g/mol. It is soluble in water and polar solvents like ethanol but insoluble in non-polar solvents such as hexane. The dye exhibits pH-dependent color changes, turning red in acidic conditions and yellow in alkaline environments. Its melting point is around 250°C, though it tends to decompose at higher temperatures rather than melt cleanly. The compound is stable under normal storage conditions but degrades upon prolonged exposure to light or moisture, requiring airtight, opaque containers for preservation.
Main Applications
Brazilin's primary use is as a natural dye for textiles, particularly in artisan and eco-friendly fabric production. It yields shades ranging from pink to deep red, depending on the mordant used. In cosmetics, it serves as a colorant for lipsticks and blushes, appealing to 'clean beauty' markets. Additionally, brazilin has applications in traditional medicine, where it is purported to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also employed as a pH indicator in laboratory settings due to its vivid color transitions.
Safety and Storage
Brazilin is generally regarded as safe for topical use but may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Inhalation of powder should be avoided, and handling with gloves is recommended. Proper ventilation is advised during large-scale processing. Storage requires protection from light, heat, and humidity. Ideal conditions include airtight containers in a cool (below 25°C), dry environment. Shelf life typically ranges from 2–3 years when stored correctly, though prolonged exposure to air can lead to oxidation and diminished dye potency.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing brazilin, buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide certificates of analysis (CoA) detailing purity (often 95–98%), botanical origin, and heavy metal content. Pricing varies by purity and volume, with bulk purchases (100+ kg) often discounted by 10–20%. Key procurement considerations include compliance with regional regulations (e.g., EU Eco-label for dyes) and sustainability certifications (e.g., FSC for ethically harvested Brazilwood). Sample testing is recommended to verify color consistency and solubility for intended applications.
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