How to Properly Use Lab Glassware
Laboratory glassware and plasticware are basic items for the preparation and storage of chemicals, experimental reagents and other supplies or consumables (e.g., tubes, pipette tips, lids). They are reused indefinitely, as long as they are manufactured for laboratory use and remain physically intact. Although they resemble and function normal glassware at home, the laboratory environment demands a stricter set of rules when handling and using them.
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Things You'll Need
- Glassware or plasticware
- Autoclave tape
- Detergent
- Bottle brush or other nonscratching scrubs
- Autoclave
- Bottle labels
- Permanent markers (e.g., Sharpies)
Instructions
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Decide on the function of the glassware. "Storage" glassware differs from "mixing" glassware. Storage glassware include buffer and non-buffer storage glassware, such as glass bottles with lined lids and narrow-opening bottles. Mixing glassware include beakers, Erlenmeyer flasks (for gas-producing liquids such as concentrated hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid), test tubes (for small volumes) and volumetric flasks.
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Decide what is placed in the glassware. Chemicals and reagents include acidic and alkaline liquids, powders, mixed-chemical solutions or oils. Consumables include pipette tips, tubes, surgical equipment and laboratory wipes. Familiarize yourself with their properties (e.g., storage temperature, pH, light and humidity sensitivity).
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Use the correct glassware for the stored item. Glassware is best for storing all chemicals as (unlike plastic) it will not corrode and leak. If the item is light-sensitive, then only dark glass is used to store the item. Plasticware is lighter, less easily broken and inexpensive; however some plastics will melt or react with certain chemicals, such as very concentrated acids.
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Choose the appropriate volume. If using the glassware to mix liquids or prepare reagents, always choose a larger-volume glassware than what is required, to account for overflow, gas or bubble emission and to allow space for swirling or magnetic stirrers.
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Autoclave the glassware before use. Wash with detergent and tap water, then replace any lids or caps loosely or cover openings with aluminum foil. Place a piece of autoclave tape (not masking tape) over the lid, side of the glassware or aluminum foil. Do not seal the glassware shut--autoclaving will heat the glassware to a high temperature and trapped air can cause extensive damage. On the tape, write the date the item was sterilized.
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Label the glassware. The name and date of the item (as well as pH, storage temperature or other conditions) and the name of the person who prepared it must be written on labels pasted at the front of the bottle. Wrap the glassware in a layer of foil if necessary to protect from light.
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Decontaminate after use. Rinse with tap water and then soak it in diluted bleach for at least one hour. Then repeat the washing and autoclaving procedure.
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Tips & Warnings
"Glassware" is the general laboratory term to refer to both glass and plasticware. Select the correct glassware accordingly.
Check glassware for cracks, scratches, holes and anything else that will compromise the integrity of the material. These faults will potentially damage autoclaves or cause hurt to personnel handling them and must be disposed off in secure biohazardous sharp-waste containers. Do not make airtight seals on glassware to be autoclaved as these will explode in the autoclave.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit chemical glassware image by Oleg Mitiukhin from Fotolia.com
