LSC Vials

Meridian Biotechnologies Ltd. supplies an extensive range of glass and plastic vials. Glass and plastic vials are available in sizes ranging from 6mL up to 20mL. This maximum of 20 ml is fixed due to the dimensions of currently used photomultiplier tubes (1½ inch diameter). It is important to remember that when the cocktail + sample is added to the vial then the vial becomes an integral component of the counting process.

In 2023 we introduced a new range of Value-Vials. These vials have a slightly higher background (about 8 cpm in the Tritium Window) but offer reasonable savings on price.
 
In the manufacture of glass vials,borosilicate (Pyrex) glass is preferred due to its lower content of Potassium as compared with Soda-glass. Potassium (40K) is the largest contributor to background in glass vials.
Glass is used because :
  • It provides unparalleled optical clarity (good visibility)
  • It is chemically inert, making it suitable for use when aggressive reagents or solvents are used.
For the production of plastic vials, High Density PolyEthylene (HDPE) derived from petrochemicals is preferred since the raw material contains minimal background.
Plastic is used because :
  • It exhibits lower background levels than glass.
  • It is combustible and therefore easier for waste disposal.
  • It is shatterproof and therefore safer in the laboratory.
  • Plastic Vials are now available in Anti-Static format in 7, 8 mL and 20 mL sizes.
For further information please ring
+44 (0) 20 8397 8316 or email info@meridian-biotech.com

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