Detailed Product Description:

Marquis reagent, first identified in 1896, is used as a spot test for alkaloid

compounds.  Used originally to distinguish the opium alkaloids, it is used

today as an identifying tool for detecting the presence of compounds found

in a product sold as “Ecstasy” and for amphetamines.  It can also be used

to test for such substances as cocaine, the opiates (e.g, methadone, heroin)

and phenethylamines (e.g. methamphetamines, amphetamines).  

Different compounds produce different color reactions.  Methanol is

added to slow down the polymerization reaction process to allow easier

color change observation. 

Test Procedure:

The test is performed by scraping off a small amount of the substance and

adding a drop of the reagent.  The clear reagent will change color.  The

results are determined by the color change and the time required for the

color change to become apparent.

Each alkaloid has a pattern of color change.  The signature of the alkaloid

is both the initial color produced, as well as the sequence of color changes

occurring with time.

Color Changes:

For Ecstasy-like substances (MDMA, MDA, or MDE), the reagent will

immediately turn dark green/turquoise and then change right away to a

dark blue (almost black).  Amphetamines are usually an orange/brown. 

DXM, the cough suppressant, will turn a yellowish-brown color within

the first fifteen seconds.  This indicates the absolute absence of an ecstasy-like

substance.

A bright reddish-orange that fades to a deep reddish-purple indicates the

presence of 2CT-7.  This also indicates the absolute absence of an ecstasy-like

substance.

If the reagent does not change to any color during the first 20 seconds, or

if it produces some other color-change sequence, then the sample does not

contain any of the above substances.

Contents:

Marquis reagent is formulated of the following constituents:

• Sulfuric acid, concentrated

• Formaldehyde

• Methyl alcohol

Precautions:

Read and understand all precautions stated in Material Safety Data Sheet

Highly corrosive, flammable.  Strong irritant to eyes and skin.  Toxic by

Inhalation and ingestion.  Corrosive to skin and mucous membranes. 

                Click here to download copy of MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet).

Packaging:

Comes packed in 250ml HDPE Laboratory-quality Nalgene bottle.