Ch. 6 Embalming Chemicals

Index

The amount of formaldehyde gas, measured in grams, dissolves in 100mL of solution

Non-cosmetic fluids

(inactive) They are colored to gauge distribution, but do not impart a color upon the tissue

Cosmetic fluids

(Active) Effectively change the color or tone of the tissue on which they are used

Preservatives

The portion of an embalming solution that contains the chemical that actively preserves tissue

Disinfectants

Destroys or otherwise inhibits bacteria in the body

Anticoagulants

Agents that compromise the ability of blood to clot

Vehicles

Delivery method for embalming solution, usually water or alcohol

Strong index

25-36+

Medium index

16-24

Weak index

5-15

Non-Cosmetic Fluids

(Inactive) Are colored to gauge distribution but do not impart color in the tissues

Cosmetic Fluids

(Active dyes) Will color/stain tissue

Surfactants

Chemical that reduces the molecular cohesion and surface tension of a liquid so it can flow through smaller apertures.

Dyes

Coloring agents that are either cosmetic (active) or non cosmetic (inactive)

Perfuming Agents

Masking agents that either eliminate or reduce harsh or unwelcome odors

Modifying Agents

Humectants and Buffers

Humectants

Chemical which counters the dehydrating effects of formaldehyde and helps tissues to retain a proper moisture balance

Buffers

Alters the pH of embalming fluids and the tissues in which thet act to achieve a greater effect

Water conditioners

Act upon waters high in calcium ions to inhibit the clotting effect they have on blood and to help preservative chemicals work better

Purpose of Cavity Fluids

To treat the hollow organs of the viscera by presevering, disinfection and deodorizing

Supplemental Fluids

Fluids which enhance the effectivenss of the preservation fluid

Examples of Supplemental Fluids

Pre-injection Fluids and Co-injection Fluids

Examples of Pre-injection Fluids

- Vessel conditioners

- Anti-coagulants

Examples of Co-injection Fluids

- Water Conditioners

- Anti-coagulants

- Humectants or restorative fluids

- Dyes

Special Purpose Fluids

Fluids designed for use with special body conditions such as jaundice or bodies requiring a high preservative demand as seen in bodies with renal failure, extensive burns, or decomposition.

Accessory Chemicals

Chemicals used in addition to the vascular and cavity fluids. Typically for use on the body surface

Examples of Accessory Chemicals

- Hardening Compounds

- Disinfectants

- Alum

Hardening Compounds

Plaster of Paris or equivalant that absorbs moisture from the body and "traps" it to prevent leakage

Disinfectants

(Paraformaldehyde) Polymerized formaledehyde which upon rehydration releases formaldehyde gas (powered form)

Alum

Absorbs moisture