Common Issues Labs Have with Plastic Containers and How to Fix Them

Medical research labs rely heavily on the quality and dependability of the tools and the supplies that they use to run their lab. There are certain supplies that simply have to work properly, day in and day out. The plastic containers that labs use to hold everything from distilled water to reagents are counted in that number. Unfortunately, not every lab has a great experience with their plastic containers. Take a look at these common problems and their fixes to see if any of them describe your lab.

Using the Wrong Container for The Job

If your lab is trying to make a plastic container do a job that it isn’t quite right for then you can run into problems both with the container and your efficiency. Using the wrong container, or one that isn’t built for your exact needs, can also lead to dangerous situations. Discoloration, permeation and leaks can all occur when plastic isn’t up to the standards you require.

The solution isn’t to keep forcing a square peg into a round hole. Instead, find a partner who can produce the exact plastic container that you need to hold whatever solutions, medicine, waste or other product that you need.

Lifecycle’s VI Plastics brand is a great choice. They make medical-grade, custom blow-molded plastic containers. Even if you have specific needs, the team can work with you to create the custom mold that does exactly what you need it to. The “VI” in VI plastic stands for what they manufacture—class six medical grade plastics. With VI Plastics you know you’re getting a product that’s customized for your needs and built to handle the tasks you give it.

Issues with Storage Space

One issue that we hear about quite a bit at Lifecycle is a lack of storage space for solutions, reagents and other lab supplies. Not only is this an issue for keeping a large enough supply on hand, but it can also cost a lab more in delivery fees. Constantly getting deliveries because you don’t have the storage space you need can raise costs excessively.

Some larger plastic containers are simply not a smart way to store solutions and reagents, but Chata Biosystems has a solution to that problem. Their solutions and reagents are delivered in specially engineered bags that take up less space, are easier to store and keep solutions usable for longer. That saves you money on storage space and deliveries.

Too Much Waste

Many labs also find that they’re also disposing of a large amount of plastic waste due to the plastic containers that they use. Chata’s packaging system helps with this issue, as well. Because the bags aren’t rigid, they can be folded down flat and stacked after they’re emptied. In fact, 100 4L CHEM+POUR Bags from Chata take up 84% less than 100 4L plastic bottles that hold the same amount of reagent. This helps labs reduce their waste and environmental footprint.

If it sounds like your lab could take a second look at the plastic containers you use, then contact Lifecycle today. Our experienced team will listen to your needs and help find the solution that best fits your lab.