Abstract

The structure and properties of xanthene dyes are discussed. The dyes are classified according to their chemical structure as well as their application class, and the properties are related to the structural features. The uses of the important xanthene dyes are given, both historically and for recent developments. Uses of xanthenes in high technology applications are reported.

The synthesis of xanthenes is summarized, giving an outline of the manufacturing processes for commercially important dyes such as Rhodamine B, Rhodamine 6G, eosine, and uranine. The toxicology and economic aspects of the common dyes is reported.