Properties of Borosilicate Glassware in the Lab

Laboratory glassware is produced from hundreds of commercial glasses, but low-expansion borosilicate glasses are ideal for most laboratory applications.Borosilicate lab glassware is used to make lab items like beakers, flasks, kettles, test tubes, and ground joints. This is because it has a low coefficient of expansion and high resistance to chemical attack.

These items are used for scientific products because they will withstand nearly all temperatures commonly used in laboratory functions with proper care.

Borosilicate Glass

Borosilicate Glass is inert to almost all materials except hydrofluoric acid, phosphoric acid, and strong, hot caustic solutions. Hydrofluoric acid has the most serious effect among these acids. Even when it is present in very low concentrations, measured in parts per million, it can still cause significant damage.

Phosphoric acid and caustic solutions cause no problems when cold, but at elevated temperatures, corrosion may occur. For example, in the case of caustic solutions, up to 30% concentration can be handled safely at ambient temperature.

Heat and agitation are often used in laboratories, for example, when stirring hot plates, boiling flasksheated in heating mantles, and overhead stirrers. When using these techniques, it is important to use products made from borosilicate glass. This will ensure safety in the laboratory.

Well-known brands of borosilicate glassware are available at The Lab Depot. These include Pyrex, a Corningtrade name, Bomex, sold by Vee Gee Scientific, and Kimax, a Kimble trade name. Other manufacturers are also available.