Citifluor CFPVOH is an aqueous solution of poly(vinyl alcohol) for use as a permanent mountant. A few drops of the solution should be applied to the specimen followed by a cover slip. The water evaporates to give a clear film which holds the cover slip in place thereby aiding the safe storage of the specimen.

The solutions are of medium viscosity and are water-white in appearance. They contain a small amount of sodium azide to prevent fungal growth. They may be stored at room temperature. The cap of the bottles should always be replaced after use, to prevent evaporation of water which leads to film formation and ultimately to solidification of the product. Samples stored under these conditions for 6 months have been found to exhibit little apparent deterioration e.g. no gel formation.