[NHCOLL-L:5768] Looking for reliable method for formalin testing

[Kathleen Kelly]

I'm in the process of searching for a reliable and affordable method to
test for the presence of formalin in our herpetological wet collection. Up
to the present, we've mainly used the EM Quant strips to test (with
formalin turning the strip purple). However, I've noticed recently that the
only way I can get a true positive (using a control) is to dilute whatever
solution I'm using with a significant amount of dionized water.

The only other method I'm aware of is discussed in Waller and McAllister's
"A Spot Test for Distinguishing Formalin from Alcohol Solutions." I'm
considering trying this method, but I thought I'd check to see what others
are doing to confirm formalin in their wet collections first.

Thanks!
Kathleen


Kathleen M. Kelly
Assistant Collection Manager
Division of Amphibians and Reptiles
Department of Zoology

Field Museum of Natural History
1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois  60605-2496
T: 312 / 665. 7722
F: 312. 665. 7697
E: kkelly at fieldmuseum.org
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