Jul 01,2022
When choosing materials for automatic pipette tips, several factors need to be considered to ensure their effectiveness and reliability. These factors may include:
Compatibility with the sample: One of the primary considerations is the compatibility of the material with the sample being pipetted. Different samples may require specific materials that are resistant to chemical reactivity or degradation. For example, if the sample is corrosive or contains organic solvents, materials such as polypropylene or polymethylpentene (PMP) may be suitable due to their chemical resistance. On the other hand, if the sample is highly viscous or contains biohazardous materials, materials like polyethylene (PE) could be appropriate.
Sterilizability: Depending on the application, automatic pipette tips may need to be autoclaved or sterilized through other methods, such as gamma irradiation or ethylene oxide gas. It is essential to choose materials that can withstand the sterilization process without warping, deforming, or losing their physical properties. Commonly used materials for sterilizable pipette tips include polypropylene and PMP.
Physical properties: The physical properties of the material play a crucial role in the performance of automatic pipette tips. Some important properties to consider include clarity, transparency, and hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity. Clarity and transparency are essential for ensuring accurate visibility and monitoring of the liquid being pipetted. Hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity of the material affects the liquid's ability to adhere to or repel from the tip's surface, which can impact pipetting accuracy and precision.
Rigidness and flexibility: The material should have a suitable balance of rigidity and flexibility to prevent bending or breakage during pipetting while also being resilient enough to snap back to its original shape. This ensures consistent and accurate pipetting results. Materials like polypropylene or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are commonly used due to their high rigidity.
Comfort and ergonomics: Automatic pipette tips that are comfortable to use and provide an ergonomic grip can reduce user fatigue and enhance pipetting efficiency. Consideration should be given to the material's texture, grip pattern, and overall design to ensure ease of handling and manipulation.
Cost-effectiveness: The cost of the material and its availability in the market will impact the overall cost of manufacturing and using automatic pipette tips. It is essential to strike a balance between quality and cost-effectiveness to ensure a reliable supply of affordable pipette tips.