laboratory plasticware types and uses

In every laboratory, precision, safety, and efficiency come down to the tools at hand, and among them, laboratory plasticware plays a critical role. Often unnoticed, these plastic tools are the backbone of countless experiments, supporting scientists and researchers behind the scenes.

Whether you’re a professional or just started your scientific journey, understanding lab plasticware isn’t just helpful; it’s important. And we are here to simplify it all by explaining the different types of lab plasticware, their types, and how they are important.

So, without wasting any more moment, let’s get started!

Common Types of Plasticware

As the name suggests, plastic lab equipment is generally used for scientific research as they are cheap, light, sturdy, and chemical-resistant. Plastic is strong and durable, meaning it won’t break like glass.

Beakers

Beakers are one of the most common labware instruments that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. While getting beakers from a laboratory equipment supplier, remember that Polypropylene (PP) is used in most applications, while Polyethylene (PE) is preferred for high temperatures. 

Graduated Cylinders

Another common type of laboratory plasticware is graduated cylinders. Graduated cylinders, crafted from durable polypropylene plastic, are essential tools for accurately measuring liquid volumes in the lab. They are transparent, allowing researchers to observe and measure the levels of liquid.

Centrifuge Tubes

Then come the centrifuge tubes, also made from polyethylene, which is used for its durability and chemical resistance. Since these tubes are used in high-speed centrifuges, they are designed to withstand high centrifugal forces during sample separation processes. You can get centrifuge tubes in different sizes and are basically used to separate components from a mixture, isolate DNA and conduct biochemical assays.

When Should You Consider Plasticware over Glassware?

Choosing plastic over glassware in a lab depends on several factors.

  • Safety: Plastic doesn’t break easily, eliminating the risk of glass shards.
  • Durability: Plastic is more affordable than glass, making plasticware a budget-friendly choice for laboratories.
  • Cost-Effective: Plastic is also cheaper than glass, meaning, plasticware for labs is a budget-friendly option for laboratories. 

In the end, these are some of the types of plasticware that you can get for your lab. However, the ideal choice ultimately depends on your specific requirements and circumstances. Before making a purchase, evaluate the factors discussed above, weigh the risks and benefits, and make a well-informed decision.