Description

Canadian Balsam, Neutral is a purified, natural oleoresin derived from the balsam fir tree, *Abies balsamea*. This specific neutralized grade is essential for applications requiring a stable, inert, and non-acidic mounting medium with exceptional optical clarity. It is a critical material for scientific and industrial users who demand consistent refractive index properties and long-term sample preservation. Key industries include microscopy, optics manufacturing, and specialized adhesives formulation.

Application

• Microscopy Mounting Medium: The primary application is as a permanent, high-refractive-index mounting medium for biological and histological specimens on glass slides.
• Lens Cementing & Optics: Used for cementing optical elements, such as lenses and prisms, due to its excellent transparency and matching refractive index to glass.
• Adhesives for Delicate Materials: Serves as a component in specialized adhesives for bonding delicate materials like mica or thin glass where clarity and minimal stress are required.
• Preparation of Immersion Oils: Employed in the formulation of high-quality immersion oils for high-magnification light microscopy.
• Preservative for Paleontological Specimens: Used to preserve and mount fragile fossil and mineral samples for study and display.
• Reference Standard in Quality Control: Acts as a reference material in laboratories for calibrating equipment or testing other mounting media.

Basic Information

Product Name	Canadian Balsam, Neutral
CAS No.	8007-47-4
Molecular Formula	Complex mixture of terpenes, resins, and esters
Molecular Weight	N/A (Natural mixture)
Synonyms	Canada Balsam; Balsam of Fir; Balsam Fir Oleoresin; Neutral Canada Balsam; Abies Balsamea Resin; Turpentine, Canada; Optical Balsam; Mounting Medium, Canada Balsam; Balsam Canada; Oleoresin, Abies Balsamea
EINECS	232-362-1

Quality Control

Our Canadian Balsam, Neutral is processed and tested to ensure it meets the stringent requirements for optical and scientific applications. Quality is verified through parameters including refractive index, acidity/neutrality, clarity, and viscosity. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) detailing batch-specific results is provided with every shipment to guarantee traceability and compliance with your specifications.

Storage

Preserve in a tightly closed container, protected from light. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at room temperature (15-25°C). This product is light-sensitive and should be kept in its original amber container or equivalent light-resistant packaging. Keep away from strong acids and organic solvents.

Specification

Item	Specification
Appearance	Clear, pale yellow to light amber viscous liquid
Identification (IR)	Conforms to standard
Refractive Index (n20D)	1.518 - 1.525
Acidity (Neutralized Grade)	Passes test (pH ~7)
Solubility in Xylene	Complete, clear solution
Clarity	Clear, free from suspended particles
Drying Time (Film)	Contact for details
Non-Volatile Matter	> 95%

Note: Specifications can be tailored. Please contact us for the detailed technical data sheet of a specific grade.