If you are working on some science projects and you need to purchase some test tubes, then you may find yourself trying to decide whether to buy plastic test tubes or glass test tubes. If this particular situation applies to you, then you should know that glass test tubes are superior to plastic test tubes for a number of reasons. So, when in doubt, you should use glass test tubes instead of plastic test tubes. Today, I will discuss three reasons why plastic test tubes are inferior to glass test tubes so that you will have a better understanding.
Plastic Test Tubes Are Not Reusable
One of the biggest disadvantages of using plastic test tubes instead of glass test tubes is the fact that plastic test tubes are not designed to be used over and over again. The vast majority of them are disposable and should be discarded immediately after use. A lot of this has to do with the fact that plastic test tubes are very difficult to clean, as some chemicals may leach into the pores of the plastic. Glass test tubes, on the other hand, are reusable and they are relatively easy to clean. While you may save some money initially by purchasing plastic test tubes instead of glass test tubes, you will end up spending more money over time.
Plastic Test Tubes Cannot Handle Corrosive Substances
You should also be aware that plastic test tubes are not designed to handle corrosive substances. Some of the substances may end up destroying the plastic. Plastic test tubes are generally designed for accommodating aqueous and non-corrosive solutions only. With glass test tubes, you don’t have to worry about this issue, as they can accommodate just about any substance that you can think of. So, if you’re not sure as to what substances you’re going to be using the test tubes for, then you should definitely purchase glass test tubes.
Plastic Test Tubes Can’t Handle High Temperatures
If you’re going to be using these test tubes and high temperature applications, such as when working with Bunsen burners or autoclaves, then you should definitely purchase glass test tubes instead of plastic tubes. This is because plastic test tubes will melt at certain temperatures. Glass, on the other hand, has a much higher melting point, so it can withstand much higher temperatures the plastic.
The inability to handle high temperatures, the inability to accommodate corrosive substances, and one-time usage are just three reasons why plastic test tubes are inferior to their glass counterparts.
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