PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) vials are highly resistant to a broad spectrum of solvents and reagents, making them ideal for chromatography and other analytical applications. Their chemical inertness ensures minimal interaction with samples, preserving integrity and accuracy. PTFE's non-stick surface also prevents sample adsorption, which is critical for trace analysis. Below, we explore the specifics of their compatibility and why they are preferred in demanding laboratory environments.
Key Points Explained:
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Broad Solvent Compatibility
PTFE vials are compatible with almost all organic and inorganic solvents, including:- Strong acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid)
- Strong bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide)
- Organic solvents (e.g., acetone, methanol, acetonitrile, hexane)
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Halogenated solvents (e.g., chloroform, dichloromethane)
This makes them suitable for aggressive chemical environments where glass or other plastics might degrade.
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Resistance to Reactive Reagents
PTFE's molecular structure (carbon-fluorine bonds) provides exceptional resistance to:- Oxidizing agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, perchloric acid)
- Corrosive salts (e.g., ammonium persulfate)
- High-purity standards required in ICP-MS or HPLC analysis, where leaching or contamination is a concern.
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Temperature and Pressure Tolerance
- PTFE remains stable across a wide temperature range (-200°C to +260°C), accommodating applications like microwave digestion or high-temperature storage.
- Their low permeability prevents volatile solvent loss, even under vacuum conditions.
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Specialized Applications
- Trace analysis: PTFE's non-adsorptive surface minimizes sample loss, critical for detecting low-concentration analytes.
- Long-term storage: Unlike glass, PTFE does not leach ions (e.g., sodium or silica) into samples, ensuring stability over time.
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Limitations to Note
- While PTFE is nearly universally compatible, it can swell slightly in highly fluorinated solvents (e.g., ptfe vials).
- Mechanical strength is lower than glass, so care is needed during capping or autoclaving.
For laboratories handling aggressive chemicals or requiring ultra-clean conditions, PTFE vials offer unmatched reliability. Their inertness and versatility make them a cornerstone in modern analytical workflows, from environmental testing to pharmaceutical research.
Summary Table:
| Feature | PTFE Vial Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Solvents | Compatible with organic/inorganic solvents, including strong acids, bases, and halogenated compounds. |
| Reagents | Resists oxidizing agents, corrosive salts, and high-purity standards (e.g., ICP-MS, HPLC). |
| Temperature Range | Stable from -200°C to +260°C, suitable for microwave digestion and high-temperature storage. |
| Specialized Uses | Non-adsorptive surface ideal for trace analysis; no leaching for long-term sample storage. |
| Limitations | Slight swelling in fluorinated solvents; lower mechanical strength than glass. |
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