PTFE-lined vials are versatile containers designed to handle a broad spectrum of sample types due to the unique properties of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). Their compatibility spans aggressive chemicals, organic solvents, and sensitive biological samples, making them indispensable in analytical and research laboratories. The inert nature of PTFE ensures minimal interaction with samples, preserving integrity for accurate analysis.
Key Points Explained:
-
Chemical Compatibility
- PTFE-lined vials are resistant to nearly all acids, bases, and organic solvents, including:
- Concentrated acids (e.g., hydrochloric, sulfuric, nitric).
- Strong bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide).
- Polar and non-polar solvents (e.g., acetone, hexane, DMSO).
- This makes them ideal for storing or processing corrosive or reactive samples without degradation or contamination.
- PTFE-lined vials are resistant to nearly all acids, bases, and organic solvents, including:
-
High-Temperature Stability
- PTFE withstands temperatures up to 260°C, allowing compatibility with:
- High-temperature digestions (e.g., microwave-assisted acid digestion).
- Autoclaving for sterilization.
- Unlike other liners, PTFE does not leach additives under heat, ensuring sample purity.
- PTFE withstands temperatures up to 260°C, allowing compatibility with:
-
Inertness for Sensitive Samples
- PTFE’s non-reactive surface prevents:
- Adsorption of analytes (critical for trace-level analysis).
- Interaction with biological samples (e.g., proteins, DNA).
- Suitable for applications like HPLC, GC, and ICP-MS where sample integrity is paramount.
- PTFE’s non-reactive surface prevents:
-
Specialized Applications
- Food and Pharmaceutical Testing: PTFE’s food-grade compliance ensures safety for consumable samples.
- Environmental Analysis: Resists matrix effects from complex environmental matrices (e.g., soil extracts, wastewater).
- Medical/Clinical Use: Compatible with bodily fluids (blood, urine) without interfering with biomarkers.
-
Limitations
- Not recommended for:
- Molten alkali metals (react with PTFE).
- Fluorinated solvents (e.g., elemental fluorine) at high pressures.
- Not recommended for:
For applications requiring fluid control, PTFE-lined components like ptfe lined ball valve offer similar chemical resistance in flow systems.
PTFE-lined vials exemplify how material science enables precise, contamination-free analysis across industries—from environmental monitoring to drug development. Their design addresses the silent challenge of sample-container interactions, often overlooked yet critical to reliable results.
Summary Table:
| Sample Type | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Aggressive Chemicals | Resists concentrated acids (HCl, H₂SO₄), bases (NaOH), and organic solvents. |
| High-Temp Samples | Stable up to 260°C; suitable for autoclaving and microwave digestion. |
| Biological Samples | Non-reactive with proteins, DNA, and bodily fluids (blood, urine). |
| Food/Pharma | Food-grade safe; no leaching or contamination risks. |
| Environmental | Handles soil extracts, wastewater without matrix interference. |
| Incompatible | Avoid molten alkali metals and high-pressure fluorinated solvents. |
Upgrade your lab’s sample handling with precision PTFE-lined vials!
KINTEK’s PTFE components—including seals, liners, and custom labware—are engineered for semiconductor, medical, and industrial applications. Ensure contamination-free analysis with our chemically inert, high-temperature-resistant solutions. Contact us to discuss custom fabrication or bulk orders tailored to your needs.