آیودین

Tincture of iodine, often simply called iodine tincture, is a solution of elemental iodine (and usually potassium iodide) dissolved in a mixture of alcohol and water. It appears as a clear to slightly yellow-brown liquid with a strong characteristic odor and exhibits potent antiseptic and disinfectant properties in medical and first‑aid uses.

🏭⚗️ Production
This tincture is traditionally prepared by dissolving iodine in a mixture of ethanol and water, often with the addition of potassium iodide to enhance solubility. The typical formulation contains around 2–10% w/v of iodine along with 2–10% potassium iodide in a 50–70% alcohol base. Careful mixing ensures complete dissolution, resulting in a stable antiseptic solution.

🔬 Properties
Iodine tincture is a clear to slightly brown solution with a distinctive iodine smell. The alcohol content gives it moderate volatility and strong antimicrobial action. It is slightly viscous and highly potent as a topical agent. The presence of alcohol aids in rapid evaporation and antiseptic action. The solution can stain skin and fabrics and may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.

🧪 Applications
• Medical/First-Aid: Widely used as a topical antiseptic for disinfecting wounds, cuts, and minor abrasions.
• Microbiology: Used in Gram staining protocols as part of the mordant step to fix the dye.
• Water Disinfection: Employed in emergency situations to purify small quantities of drinking water (typically a few drops per liter), where it releases free iodine to kill pathogens.
• Veterinary and Field Use: Utilized for antiseptic purposes in field dressings and animal wound care due to its portability and broad antimicrobial spectrum.
• Laboratory: Occasionally used as a reagent when elemental iodine is needed in a quick-dissolving, alcohol-based medium.