Storage Systems & Processes

Desiccators, sometimes called dry boxes, provide a low-humidity atmosphere for storage of items and materials that would otherwise be damaged by moisture. Desiccators are used for a wide range of applications across several scientific disciplines.

In chemistry and biology, desiccators are often used to store hygroscopic reagents and chemicals. Keeping these compounds in a low-humidity environment drastically increases their shelf life. In semiconductor research and manufacturing, dry storage is often employed to prevent damaging oxidation of wafers and other components that can lead to immediate or latent failures.

In order to achieve a low relative-humidity (RH) atmosphere for storage within a desiccator, two storage techniques are commonly used: desiccant-based and nitrogen-purged.

Benefits of Desiccant

A desiccant is a hygroscopic material, often silica gel. We’ve all seen “pillow packs” in pill bottles and electronic pac

The cryoprotectant your lab selects for long-term storage of both eukaryotic and bacterial cell storage can have profound implications for future experimental results. Cryoprotectants, literally “to protect cells and tissue from damage due to freezing,” can be man-made, or generated in nature. For example, some species of plants and animals produce substances with anti-freeze properties to help them survive cold environments. The sugar trehalose is one such compound, and is being tested as a cryoprotectant option for lab use.

Vial boxes for cryogenic storage

These cellular guardians are generally formulated with other substances

Lyophilization, also known as freeze-drying or cryo-desiccation, is the process by which water is removed from a sample without the need to apply heat. Many labs prefer the process of lyophilization over direct heat when it comes to long-term sample storage since freeze-drying prevents sample contamination and promotes sample stability in life science and food manufacturing applications.

Benefits of lyophilization (freeze-drying):

• Samples processed in aseptic conditions
• Does not use heat
• Less heat ensures sample (drug) stability
• Increases shelf life
• Samples can be stored at room temperature indefinitely
• Reduces weight and volume of samples; ideal for shipping
• Useful in drying perishable materials
• Does not shrink samples

Process of Lyophilization

The process of lyophilization requires sterile conditions and special equipment.

Firs

Just as there are many different types of laboratories with varying needs, there are many laboratory freezers/refrigerators to fill those needs. Based on the types of specimens and supplies you intend to store, choose a freezer that fits the bill. Keep reading for some information that will help you determine which units work best for your lab.

Jewett Pass-Thru Lab Refrigerators

If you handle non-critical samples that still require temperature uniformity and security, these Pass-Thru refrigerators are ideal. Your laboratory will run more efficiently with the ability to access the refrigerator at multiple entry points. The dual-direction sliding drawers are convenient for technicians on both sides to quickly access samples and supplies. With heated, triple-pane glass doors, there is no risk of condensation or fog. When necessary, you can secure your samples by locking the door with a key. Its affordability makes it a great choice fo