Glovebox Materials
Glovebox Materials
Acrylic
Pros
- Clear, lightweight
- Strong, rigid
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Avoid in aseptic applications: Damaged by alcohol and other cleaning agents
- Dangerous for ESD-sensitive parts: Generates surface charges
- Hard to clean: surface charges cling to particles
Polyethylene
Pros
- Strong, rigid
- Inexpensive
- Resists alcohol and many other cleaning agents
Cons
- Dangerous for ESD-sensitive parts: Generates surface charges
- Opaque (required viewing window)
Static-Dissipative PVC
Pros
- Clean and ESD-Safe: dissipative surface charges to ground to prevent ESD and particle attraction
- Easy to sterilize: Resists alcohol and other cleaning agents
- Nearly transparent: full product visibility
Cons
- Higher cost than acrylic
- Not recommended for temperatures ≥120°F (49°C)
Polypropylene
Pros
- Excellent chemical compatibility, particularly to acids
- Strength
Cons
- Opaque (white) surfaces; requires viewing windows
- Generates surface charges
Polycarbonate
Pros
- Broad chemical compatibility
- Strong and rigid
- Thermal resistance to 135°F (57°C)
Cons
- Generates surface charges
Fiberglass
Pros
- Broad chemical compatibility
- Strong and rigid
- Thermal resistance to 135°F (57°C)
Cons
- Opaque (required viewing window)
Stainless Steel
Pros
- Strength, durability
- Resists solvents and strong cleaning agents
- Conductive surfaces minimize ESD danger
- Electropolishing remove subsurface contaminants for optimal cleanliness
Cons
- Requires viewing windows
- Cost
- Damaged by acids