Hydrogenation of triton X-100 eliminates its fluorescence and ultraviolet light absorption while preserving its detergent properties.

The ultraviolet-light absorption and fluorescence of Triton X-100 were virtually eliminated by hydrogenation to its reduced cyclohexyl analog, RTX-100. The critical micelle concentration of RTX-100 was 12% higher than that of Triton X-100. RTX-100 and Triton X-100 were quite similar in their abilities to extract proteins from human erythrocyte membranes.