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Randolph’s Fluid

Randolph’s Fluid

Formula

Solution A

MaterialAmount
Chromium trioxide10g
Acetic acid, glacial70mL
Distilled water930mL

Solution B

MaterialAmount
Strong formalin300mL
Distilled water700mL

Mix equal parts of solutions A and B just before use.

Description

Randolph’s fluid is a modification of Navishin’s fluid and is somewhat weaker, but more convenient to prepare. It is used for the same purpose, i.e. chromosomes. It is sometimes referred to as “Craf” or “CRAF”, both of which refer to “chromium, acetic, formalin”, the three active ingredients.

Fixation of average sized pieces is complete after 12 to 24 hours, and then they must be washed very well with running tap water to remove all traces of chromium trioxide.

Safety Note

Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.

References

  1. Davenport, H.A., (1960),
    Histological and histochemical techniques,
    W. B. Saunders Co., London, UK., Oxford, UK.