Tincture of iodine
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Tincture of iodine is a disinfectant, usually 8% elemental iodine in ethanol.
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[edit] Overview
Tincture of iodine is often found in emergency survival kits, used both to disinfect wounds and to sanitize surface water for drinking[1].
When an alcohol solution is not desirable, Lugol's iodine, an aqueous solution of iodine in potassium iodide solution, or povidone iodine (Betadine), a PVPI solution, can be used.
Iodine is toxic. Children and pregnant women, who are more sensitive to it, should avoid its use. Human metabolism requires trace amount of iodine, which is satisfied by iodized salt.
When using iodine to sanitize surface water, it should be left to sit for 30 minutes before drinking, allowing time for all viruses and bacteria to be killed. If the water temperature is less than 20 °C (68 °F), sitting time should be extended to several hours. To purify 1 L (34 oz) of water, 0.3 mL (0.01 oz) of 2% tincture should be used. Cold or cloudy water should be given 2.4 mL (0.08 oz) of 2% iodine, and should be left to sit for several hours.
Following disinfection, the iodine odor and taste can be removed by adding powdered vitamin C, which converts the iodine to iodide. A similar reaction also removes chlorine from chlorinated water.[citation needed]
Iodine used to sanitize water is also available in tablet or crystal form. One form or another should be available at health stores, and trip outfitters.
