When and Why to Use Deep Well Storage Plates in Laboratories

In laboratory research, using efficient tools is critical to achieving precise results. Healthcare professionals and researchers rely on various tools and instruments for research and experimentation. One such invaluable and versatile tool is the deep-well plate, used for a range of applications.

The deep well plate is one of the most indispensable tools in modern laboratories, especially for sample preparation and compound storage. Therefore, before selecting a chromatography lab vial supplier, you should understand when and why to use deep well storage plates in laboratories.

This blog explains the meaning and applications of deep-well plates in the laboratory.

What are Deep Well Plates?

Deep well plates are multi-level containers with a considerably large cross-section. They are ideal for larger-volume applications, offering a capacity of 1-2.2 millilitres per well.

The plates are typically made of plastic and, in some cases, glass, and are designed to hold liquids or other substances within the grid of evenly spaced walls. Deep well blocks are available in two exceptional materials, polystyrene (PS) and polypropylene (PP). Polypropylene is a chemically inert, autoclavable plastic that resists acids, bases, and solvents.

Moreover, they are highly compatible with automated systems, offering better scalability and organization, especially in a high-capacity environment.

Applications of the Deep Well Plate

Sample Storage

They serve as a space-efficient solution that offers convenient storage for medium to long-term biological samples, chemical compounds, and reagents. Deep-well plates are often used to store materials such as chemicals, DNA/RNA, or proteins. The valuable samples are organized and stored efficiently by high-density well arrays.

High-capacity Processing

The plates are essential in high-capacity screening assays, allowing professionals to test multiple compounds simultaneously for discovery and research. They are also often integrated into automated liquid-handling systems for high-capacity sample processing, such as protein precipitation and purification, DNA/RNA extraction, and SPE.

Liquid Handling

The plate’s compatibility with automated liquid-handling systems makes it simple to aspirate and dispense precise volumes of liquid, ensuring experimental precision.

Pellet Collection and Centrifugation

Several procedures require centrifugation to separate particulates from supernatants. They provide clear supernatant separation and efficient pellet formation when used with appropriate rotors and adapters.

Compound Library Management

The plates are frequently used to hold large libraries of compounds in pharmaceutical and chemical research. They are also compatible with robotic pipetting, enabling rapid screening during discovery workflows of the drugs

Deep well plates are flexible, scalable and efficient for various laboratories’ experiments. By selecting appropriate deep-well plates, healthcare professionals can significantly maximize data quality and process reliability.