Buffers and pH Control

Buffers are aqueous solutions that resist changes in pH when small amounts of acid or base are added to them. They are composed of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or a weak base and its conjugate acid, which react with added hydrogen ions (H⁺) or hydroxide ions (OH⁻) to maintain the pH of the solution within a certain range.

Buffering capacity of a water solution depends on both acids and bases, and buffer solutions, both inorganic and organic, possess both acids and their conjugate or opposite bases to deliver or accept H+ ions (protons) in water.  In this way, combining an acid and its conjugate base, its possible to maintain or buffer changes in additional protons (H+, acidity) during chemical reactions and biological processes.  

We carry all of the standard inorganic phosphate buffers, salts and convenient pre-made solutions, as well as TRIS, HEPES, MES and MOPS buffers in a variety of concentrations and grades, as well as pH standardization solutions, cell lysis buffers, and many other unique and hard-to-find buffers used routinely in molecular biology and research labs.

Download the Buffers and pH Control Product Quick List