Used as a biological buffer substance in the pH range 7—9; pKa = 8.3 at 20°C; pKa = 7.82 at 37°C. Used as a biological buffer or as a component of buffer formulations such as TAE and TBE buffers. Tris has a pKa of 8.06 and is very useful in the biology and biochemistry lab because it has buffering capabilities in the range of the typical physiological pH of most living organisms (pH 7.0-9.0). Tris has been reported to interfere with the activity of a number of enzymes, it should therefore be used carefully when studying proteins. Used in chemical manufacturing (surface-active agents, vulcanization accelerators, and pharmaceuticals), as an emulsifying agent (cosmetics, mineral oil and paraffin wax emulsions, leather dressings, textile specialties, polishes, cleaning compounds, and soluble oils), and as an absorbent for acidic gases, biological buffer, acidimetric standard, and therapeutic alkalinizing agent. Used in buffer systems for the freezer storage of sperm, to regulate pH in the transport of live aquatic species, cell culture media, and anti-inflammatory drugs.

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.