Biochemistry- Hydrolysis of Wool in Strong Base

Hydrolysis of Wool in Strong Base

Description: The protein bound in wool is hydrolyzed by boiling in sodium hydroxide solution. Human hair also works. Source: UW Card Catalog Keywords: Wool, Hydrolysis, Sodium hydroxide, Protein, Heat Rating: Hazard:  Some
  • Acute aquatic toxicity hazard
  • Skin corrosion hazard
  • Inhalation hazard
  • Burn hazard
  • Electric shock hazard
  • Corrosive to metals
Effectiveness: Good
  • Results are clearly observable without guidance
  • Good connection from demo to course material
  • Clear contrast between systems behavior
  • Time to results is high
Difficulty: Medium
  • Use of toxic chemicals
  • Some concerted manipulations
  • Experiments at non-standard conditions
  • Use of strong base
  • Simple procedures
Safety Precautions:
  • Eye protection required
  • Gloves required
  • Lab coat recommended
  • Perform in a well-ventilated area
  • Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet
  • Absorbent materials on hand
  • Sodium bicarbonate on hand
  • Avoid exposure to droplets, mists, or vapors
  • Prevent release of reagents to the environment
 
Class: Biochemistry, Acids and Bases Division: General, Biological Chemistry