Sofia Martinez
Plastic pipettes are commonly used in laboratories for biology, chemistry, and other sciences. They are used to transfer and measure the volume of a solution with a high level of accuracy. It is important to know the scale to which the liquid is measured in the pipette being used. There are three main types of pipettes: Pasteur, volumetric, and micropipettes. Each type has a different method of measuring and dispensing liquids. For example, a volumetric pipette is calibrated to have a high level of accuracy, so when a certain volume is dispensed, it can be reported with up to two figures. Plastic pipettes are typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene, depending on the liquid and volume being transferred.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Pipette Use | The use of plastic pipettes is similar to using a straw, creating a pressure gradient to pull or push liquid |
| Holding Technique | Hold with the lower guard positioned above the index finger, similar to a syringe |
| Accuracy | Depends on the type of pipette; volume pipettes are highly accurate and measured in millilitres |
| Volume Measurement | The volume of a graduated pipette is marked in increments along the tubing |
| Vacuum | A vacuum source is required for the operation of a graduated pipette |
| Tubing Material | Plastic or glass tubing with a tapered tip |
| Plastic Types | Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP); choice depends on liquid properties and volume to be transferred |
| PE Properties | Flexible, lightweight, durable, corrosion-resistant, good moisture protection, resistant to cracking and puncturing |
| PP Properties | Resistant to diluted bases and acids, tough and durable |
| Common Uses | Food and beverage production (PE); microinjection and patch clamping (PP) |
| Types | Pasteur, volumetric, and micropipettes |
| Volume Reading | A number and a line/mark indicate volume dispensed when filled to the line/mark |
| Volume Adjustment | Micropipettes have a volume adjustment wheel to set the desired volume |
| Plunger | Used to fill and empty the pipette; thumb pressure is applied slowly and gently |
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What You'll Learn
Know the different types of pipettes
Pipettes are a common laboratory tool used to transfer measured volumes of liquid. They come in a variety of designs and technologies, with differing levels of accuracy and precision. The right pipette for you will depend on your needs, including the type and volume of liquid you will be dispensing, as well as your budget.
The first simple pipettes were made of glass, such as the Pasteur pipette, which is also known as a dropper or eye dropper. These are now commonly made from plastic and are used to transfer small quantities of liquids. They are tapered to a narrow point at the lower end and fitted with a plastic or rubber bulb at the upper end.
Volumetric pipettes, or bulb pipettes, allow the user to measure a volume of solution extremely precisely. They have a large bulb with a long, narrow portion above, with a single graduation mark as they are calibrated for a single volume. Volumetric pipettes are often used to create serial and stock solutions, as well as for titrations and volumetric analysis.
Single-channel pipettes are non-disposable instruments that usually have an air-displacement design, producing accurate measurements with the use of one disposable tip. They come in both manual and electronic formats. The manual format is the most cost-effective, while the electronic format offers increased accuracy and reduced user differences.
Multichannel pipettes allow the user to increase output and productivity while reducing costs. They can come with 8, 12, or more channels.
Other types of pipettes include the repeat pipette, which has a filling and dispensing lever instead of a plunger, and the Winkler-Dennis gas combustion pipette, which is used for the controlled reaction of liquids under a mild electric current and a supply of oxygen.
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Understand how to measure volume
To read a plastic pipette, you must first understand the basics of how pipettes work and how to use them.
Pipettes are used to measure and transfer precise amounts of liquid. They come in different sizes, and it is important to choose the correct size for the volume of liquid you are transferring. The pipette you choose should be slightly larger than the total volume of liquid you are transferring. For example, if you are transferring 45mL of liquid, you should use a 50mL pipette.
Once you have chosen the correct size, attach a bulb or pipette filler to the pipette if it is not already attached. Squeeze the bulb to release air from the pipette and then place the opposite end into the liquid. If your pipette has a side valve, place your finger firmly across it to create a vacuum and prevent the liquid from spilling out while moving the pipette. Release the bulb once the desired amount of liquid has been collected.
Now, to measure the volume of liquid in the pipette, it is important to read the markings on the pipette correctly. Serological pipettes have markings along their length, which usually read from the largest volume near the tip to the smallest near the upper opening. When measuring the volume, read from the bottom of the meniscus (the concave shape formed by the liquid inside the pipette), not across the top.
It is important to note that small volumes can be tricky to measure accurately. To improve accuracy, use a well-calibrated pipette with proper-fitting tips. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for the specific pipette you are using, including the specified volume range.
Additionally, maintaining the pipette in a vertical position during measurement can improve the reproducibility of your results.
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Learn how to hold a pipette
Holding a pipette correctly is essential for ensuring accuracy and avoiding injury. Here are some tips for how to hold a pipette:
First, it is important to consider your posture. Your elbows should remain close to your body, with your arms and wrists extended in a straight, neutral position, similar to a handshake posture. Keep the items you are working with close by to limit the extension and elevation of your arm. Your forearm should be rotated at a 45-degree pronation (palm down) to minimize pressure on the carpal tunnel.
Regarding the grip on the pipette, there are a few different techniques that can be used. Some people prefer to use their thumb to depress the plunger, while others find it more comfortable to use their index finger or middle finger. The hook of the pipette can be placed over the middle finger, leaving the index finger free to hold and open microcentrifuge tubes. Alternatively, the hook can be placed between the index and middle fingers, allowing the thumb to rest on the index finger. For those with smaller hands, the hook may need to rest on a different part of the finger. It is important to find a grip that is comfortable for you and allows you to maintain a relaxed grip to reduce tension in the arm, wrist, and hand.
When aspirating, hold the pipette at eye level to accurately interpret the volume. Pay close attention to your immersion depth, ensuring that the pipette tip is just below the surface of the liquid to prevent air bubbles. Pre-wet the pipette tip by aspirating and dispensing the liquid at least three times before beginning your procedure to ensure volume accuracy.
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Recognise different pipette materials
Pipettes are a common laboratory tool used to transport measured volumes of liquid and come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. The first simple pipettes were made of glass, such as the Pasteur pipette. Today, large pipettes are still made of glass, while smaller pipettes are made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic or electronic microprocessors.
Plastic pipettes are used when an exact volume is not required. They are inert to biological fluids and most acids. They are also unbreakable and disposable.
Glass pipettes are constructed of borosilicate glass. They are often used for measuring volumes under 1 milliliter (mL).
Electronic pipettes are more expensive but offer increased ergonomics, accuracy, and reduced user-to-user differences. They are commonly used in academic, pharmaceutical, and research laboratories.
Single-channel electronic pipettes are available, as well as multichannel pipettes with 8, 12, or 64 channels. These can increase productivity by reducing assay, testing, and production costs.
Pipette tips are most commonly made from a polypropylene resin and come in a variety of colours. It is important to choose tips that are sterile and free of contaminants.
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Identify the uses of plastic pipettes
Plastic pipettes are used in laboratories across various sectors, including chemistry and biology. They are commonly used to transport measured volumes of liquid, often as a media dispenser. Plastic pipettes are ideal for situations where an exact volume is not required. They are also used to transfer small amounts of liquids, prepare mixtures, or create staining solutions.
Plastic pipettes are available in various styles, including the standard tip, fine tip, and non-graduated. They are also available in different sizes, such as 1ml and 3ml. The extra-fine tip on some plastic pipettes enables the transfer of minute amounts of fluids.
Plastic pipettes are often used in educational and research environments due to their cost-efficiency, safety, and ease of use. They are disposable and intended for one-time use, reducing the risk of contamination and providing a long shelf life. Additionally, plastic pipettes eliminate the issues associated with glass pipettes, such as broken glass and cracked or loose bulbs.
Plastic pipetting syringes are another type of plastic pipette that combines the functions of volumetric (bulb) pipettes, graduated pipettes, and burettes. They are calibrated to ISO volumetric A-grade standards and can be used with a wide variety of fluids, including aqueous, viscous, and volatile fluids, in volumes between 0.5ml and 25ml.
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Frequently asked questions
Modern plastic pipettes are made from either polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).
The volume of a graduated pipette is marked in defined increments along the tubing. These measurements are usually in millilitres (ml).
There are three kinds of plastic pipettes typically used in labs: Pasteur pipettes, volumetric pipettes, and micropipettes.
Using a pipette is relatively straightforward. First, insert the plastic tip of the pipette just below the surface of the fluid. Then, slowly release your thumb pressure on the plunger to draw fluid into the tip. Once the plunger has travelled all the way out, remove the pipette from the solution.
