Uses of Glass Capillary Tubing

Blood Collection:

Capillary tubes are used for collecting small volumes of blood samples, particularly for hematocrit determination or blood gas analysis. The capillary action helps draw blood into the tube.

Microscale Chemistry:

In experiments requiring small quantities of reagents, capillary tubing allows for precise measurements and controlled reactions on a tiny scale.

Electrophoresis:

Capillary electrophoresis relies on capillary tubes to separate charged molecules based on their mobility in an electric field. The narrow diameter of the capillary enables high-resolution separations.

Gas Chromatography:

Glass capillary columns are crucial components in gas chromatography systems. Their thin film coatings and small inner diameters facilitate efficient separations of volatile compounds.

Liquid Handling:

Capillary tubing is utilized for precise liquid transfer tasks, such as spotting samples onto surfaces, loading samples onto analytical instruments, or constructing microfluidic devices for various applications.

Optical Experiments:

Capillary tubes are employed in optical experiments where the transmission of light through small channels is necessary, such as in constructing microscopic fluidic channels for optical microscopy or in fiber optic applications.

Thermometry:

Capillary tubes can be used as thermometers in certain applications. The expansion or contraction of a liquid within the tube indicates temperature changes, making them suitable for temperature measurement in specific environments.

Electrical Insulation:

In some cases, glass capillary tubing serves as electrical insulation due to its high resistance to electrical conductivity. This property makes it useful for applications requiring electrical insulation in laboratory setups.

Microbiology:

Capillary tubes are employed in microbiology for tasks such as determining bacterial motility or measuring bacterial growth rates.

Sample Storage:

Capillary tubes can be used for storing small volumes of samples, particularly in situations where sample evaporation needs to be minimized.

Sealant Application:

In certain experiments or procedures, capillary tubes are used for precise application of sealants or adhesives due to their small diameter.