How I Used the VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes and What I Found
The VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes are a staple in any lab setting, promising chemical resistance and high-temperature usability. Offered by VWR, these dishes are designed for evaporating liquids and solids in a controlled environment. The PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) construction is the key selling point, ensuring inertness against most chemicals.
My work in environmental analysis often requires concentrating samples for accurate readings. Traditional glassware can sometimes leach contaminants or react with aggressive solvents. The promise of a chemically inert and autoclavable dish led me to explore the VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes as a possible solution.
Upon unboxing, the dish felt lightweight yet sturdy. The smooth internal finish was immediately noticeable. Compared to porcelain dishes, the PTFE felt less brittle and less prone to chipping. Initially, I considered borosilicate glass dishes. However, their susceptibility to hydrofluoric acid and strong bases made them unsuitable for some of my workflows. Similarly, stainless steel dishes were ruled out due to potential metal contamination in trace element analysis.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price point of $91.99 seemed a bit steep for a single evaporating dish, but the promised benefits of PTFE justified the investment if it performed as expected.
Real-World Testing: Putting VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes in a controlled laboratory environment, concentrating pesticide residues from a water sample. The dish was placed on a hot plate at 60°C to evaporate the solvent. There was no visible reaction or degradation of the PTFE material.
The evaporation process was even and consistent. I observed no signs of the sample sticking to the dish’s surface. After the solvent evaporated, the residue was easily recovered with a minimal amount of rinsing solvent.
The first use was straightforward and uneventful, exactly what I wanted. The lack of reactivity and ease of use was impressive, although it was still too early to judge its long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes have proven to be a reliable workhorse in my lab. The dishes have been used with various solvents, including hexane, acetone, and dichloromethane. There has been no visible degradation or discoloration of the PTFE material.
The durability has also exceeded my expectations. Despite repeated heating and cooling cycles, the dish has shown no signs of cracking or warping. Cleaning is also easy. Most residues can be simply wiped away, and stubborn deposits can be removed with mild detergent and a soft sponge.
Compared to my previous experience with glass dishes, the PTFE dishes offer significantly better chemical resistance and ease of cleaning. The initial investment is paying off in terms of reduced risk of contamination and improved workflow efficiency.
Breaking Down the Features of VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes
Specifications
- Material: Isostatically molded, FDA approved pure PTFE. This ensures chemical inertness and biocompatibility.
- Capacity: 50 mL. The capacity is ideal for concentrating small to medium-sized samples.
- Dimensions: 60 mm diameter x 20 mm height. These dimensions provide a large surface area for efficient evaporation while maintaining a low profile.
- Temperature Range: Usable to 260°C (500°F). This high-temperature resistance allows for a wide range of applications.
- Autoclavable: Yes. Autoclavability is essential for maintaining sterility in biological and pharmaceutical applications.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and versatility of the dish. The PTFE material ensures that the dish will not react with or contaminate the sample. The temperature range allows for use with a variety of solvents and heating methods.
Performance & Functionality
The VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes perform their job exceptionally well. The flat-bottom design ensures even heating and prevents hot spots. The PTFE material provides a non-stick surface, making it easy to recover the concentrated sample.
The main strength is its chemical inertness. I can confidently use it with a wide range of solvents and chemicals without worrying about contamination. A minor weakness is its relatively small capacity, which may not be suitable for large-volume evaporations. However, the 50 mL capacity is ideal for most of my analytical work. The dishes meet my expectations for chemical resistance, ease of cleaning, and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The dish has a simple but functional design. The smooth internal finish and flat-bottom shape are well-suited for evaporation applications. The light weight of the PTFE material makes it easy to handle.
There is essentially no learning curve. The dish is easy to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The PTFE material is highly durable and resistant to cracking or warping. The dishes should last for a long time with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with mild detergent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes are relatively simple labware. There are no specific accessories or customization options available directly from VWR. However, the dishes can be used with a variety of standard laboratory equipment, such as hot plates, ovens, and desiccators.
Pros and Cons of VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes
Pros
- Chemically Inert: Made of PTFE, ensuring no sample contamination.
- High-Temperature Resistance: Usable up to 260°C (500°F).
- Easy to Clean: Non-stick surface simplifies residue removal.
- Durable: Resistant to cracking and warping with proper use.
- Autoclavable: Suitable for sterile environments.
Cons
- Relatively Expensive: $91.99 per dish is higher than some alternatives.
- Limited Capacity: 50 mL may not be suitable for large-volume evaporations.
Who Should Buy VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes?
The VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes are perfect for analytical chemists, environmental scientists, and biochemists who require chemically inert and heat-resistant labware. They are also suitable for pharmaceutical researchers and quality control labs.
Anyone working with sensitive samples that could be contaminated by conventional glassware or metal dishes will benefit from using these PTFE dishes.
Someone who needs a large evaporating dish for bulk solvent removal should skip this product and look for larger-capacity options. Must-have accessories include a hot plate, a desiccator, and a supply of suitable cleaning solvents.
Conclusion on VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes
The VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes are a valuable addition to any laboratory that demands high purity and chemical resistance. While the price of $91.99 may seem high, the benefits of PTFE outweigh the cost for many applications.
I would personally recommend these dishes to anyone working with trace analysis, environmental monitoring, or other sensitive applications. If you value accuracy, reliability, and ease of use, the VWR Evaporating Dishes, PTFE 6.105 Flat-Form Dishes are a worthy investment. Consider adding this workhorse to your labware collection and experience the benefits of PTFE for yourself!
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