Lab storage bottles are made from various materials, each with specific properties and characteristics that make them suitable for different types of laboratory applications. Selecting the right material for your lab storage bottles depends on the nature of the stored substances and the intended use. Here are the most common materials used for lab storage bottles and guidance on how to choose the most suitable one:
Glass:
Advantages: Glass is inert, transparent, and highly resistant to chemical interactions. It is suitable for storing a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents. Glass bottles are also non-permeable and maintain the integrity of the stored substances.
Considerations: Glass is brittle and can break if dropped, making it unsuitable for some applications. Additionally, it is heavier than plastic, which can be a factor in handling and shipping.
Polyethylene (PE):
Advantages: PE is lightweight, chemically resistant, and cost-effective. It is suitable for general-purpose storage of a wide range of chemicals and solutions.
Considerations: PE may not be suitable for storing some volatile organic compounds as it can be slightly permeable to certain substances.
Polypropylene (PP):
Advantages: PP is chemically resistant and autoclavable, making it suitable for storing a wide range of chemicals, including those used in autoclave sterilization. It is often used for long-term storage.
Considerations: PP bottles may not be as transparent as glass or some other plastics.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):
Advantages: HDPE is lightweight, durable, and resistant to impact. It is often used for storing acids, bases, and other corrosive chemicals.
Considerations: Like PE, HDPE may not be suitable for storing some volatile or aromatic compounds.
Teflon (PTFE):
Advantages: PTFE bottles are highly chemically inert and suitable for storing very aggressive or corrosive chemicals. They are also resistant to high temperatures.
Considerations: PTFE bottles can be more expensive than other materials.
Amber Glass and Plastic:
Advantages: Amber bottles are used to protect light-sensitive substances from degradation caused by UV and visible light exposure. They are commonly used for storing reagents and solutions that are light-sensitive.
Considerations: Amber bottles may limit visibility, making it difficult to see the contents.
Borosilicate Glass:
Advantages: Borosilicate glass is a specialized type of glass known for its excellent thermal shock resistance. It is suitable for applications involving extreme temperature changes.
Considerations: Borosilicate glass can be more expensive than standard glass.
When choosing the material for your lab storage bottles, consider the following factors:
Chemical Compatibility: Ensure that the material is compatible with the chemicals or substances you plan to store. Check chemical resistance charts and compatibility guides.
Durability: Consider the durability of the material, especially if the bottles will be subjected to rough handling or potentially dropped.
Autoclavability: If you require sterilization by autoclaving, select materials that are autoclavable.
Light Sensitivity: If you're storing light-sensitive substances, opt for amber glass or plastic.
Budget: Consider your budget constraints, as some materials may be more expensive than others.
Specific Application Requirements: Some applications may have unique requirements. For instance, Teflon bottles are suitable for extremely corrosive substances.
Permeability: Check if the material is permeable to specific chemicals, especially when storing volatile or aromatic compounds.
It's essential to refer to the manufacturer's specifications and compatibility guides to make an informed decision on the material best suited for your specific lab storage needs.