Dear histonetters,

Could someone please explain the chemistry behind the potassium
permanganate/sulphuric acid method of DAB disposal?.
Also, what is the purpose of the decolourization step(ascorbic acid) and the
subsequent neutralization. Is there a preferred choice of neutralizer? I
have seen methods that use sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, and sodium
bicarbonate - as neutralizer - which is the best?

best regards
louise taylor

Research Laboratory
Department of Anatomical Pathology
South African Institute for Medical Research
Johannesburg
South Africa