Marquis reagent
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The Marquis reagent is used as a simple spot-test to identify alkaloids. It is composed of a mixture of formaldehyde and concentrated sulfuric acid which is dripped onto the substance being tested. Different alkaloids produce different colour reactions. Also some times methanol is added to slow down the reaction process to observe the change in colour better. Methanol does this by slowing down the polymerisation process.
It is the primary presumptive test used in Ecstasy testing kits.
It can also be used to test for such substances as cocaine, methadone, hallucinogens, amphetamines and opiates.
It will turn purple if the tested substance is heroin, and an orange, red or brown color if the tested substance contains amphetamines. The Marquis reagent will turn deep blue in reaction to methamphetamine and deep blue or black in reaction to MDMA/Ecstasy. Aspirin will produce a deep red reaction from the Marquis reagent, and sugar will produce a dark brown color.
To make marquis reagent, simply mix 2 drops of 40% formaldehyde with 3ml of concentrated sulfuric acid. cap tightly.
[edit] External links
- Shulgin on the Test
- Color Test Reagents/Kits for Preliminary Identification of Drugs Of Abuse, National Institute of Justice Standard – 0604.01