MES (buffer)

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This page is about the biochemical buffering agent. For information about other meanings of MES, see MES.

The chemical structure of MES

MES is the common name for the compound 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid. It is can be used as a buffering agent in biology and biochemistry. Its chemical structure contains a morpholine ring. Similar pH buffering compounds include MOPS which contains a propanesulphonic moiety instead of an ethanesulphonic one. It is one of Good's buffers. Melting point is approx. 300 degrees C. It is soluable up to 0.5M in water.

It has a molecular weight of 195.2 and the formula C₆H₁₃NO₄S. Synonyms include: 2-morpholinoethanesulfonic acid; 2-(4-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid;, 2-(N-morpholino)ethanesulfonic acid; 2-(4-morpholino)ethanesulphonic acid; MES; MES hydrate; and morpholine-4-ethanesulfonic acid hydrate.

[edit] Safety

MES is reasonably safe, but skin/[[eye] exposure should be cleaned well with water and medical aid should be sought in the case of eye exposure/swallowing/inhalation of dust. It also emits toxic fumes upon combustion, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide and sulphur oxides.

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