Zinc Chloride, A New Material for Embalming and Preservation of the Anatomical Specimens

Introduction: Formaldehyde is one of the most common chemicals used for embalming and as a result teaching anatomy. Because of the adverse effects of formaldehyde on human health and also its environmental complications, this study was conducted to investigate a new solution containing zinc chloride for fixation and preservation of anatomical specimens.  Methods: In this study, we used 40% zinc chloride solution (400 g in 1 liter of tap water) combining with 1 liter of glycerin and 200 g thymol per 10 liters solution. One equine (donkey), two carnivores (dog) and one ruminant (goat) were embalmed with the mentioned solution. Two another dogs were also embalmed with only 40% zinc chloride solution. The specimens were dissected after three weeks. Results: Muscular tissue as well as joints were remained soft and flexible. The vessels and nerves were dissected and detected easily. No sign of tissue desiccation was seen. Color of muscular tissues and internal organs were similar to formalin-embalmed specimens. Sedimentation of salt on skin or internal organs was not seen. Similar results were obtained from specimens which embalmed with only 40% ZnCl2 solution.  Conclusion: It seems that 40% ZnCl2 solution could embalm and preserve anatomical specimens as well without using formalin, alcohol, glycerin, or thymol.