Specimen jars measuring 15 cm in height and 6 cm in diameter are crucial for various applications in laboratories, medical facilities, and research settings. They are used to store, transport, and analyze a wide range of samples. Here are the comprehensive details about specimen jars with these dimensions:

Overview

Specimen Jars: Cylindrical containers designed for holding and preserving biological, chemical, or environmental samples. They are constructed to protect the integrity of the specimens and prevent contamination.

Dimensions:

• Height: 15 cm (approximately 5.9 inches)
• Diameter: 6 cm (approximately 2.36 inches)

Materials

1. Jar Material:
   • Polypropylene (PP): Preferred for its durability, chemical resistance, and ability to withstand autoclaving (sterilization by steam under pressure).
   • Polyethylene (PE): Known for its flexibility and impact resistance, though it has a lower heat resistance compared to polypropylene.
   • Glass: Offers high clarity and chemical resistance, suitable for applications requiring visibility of the sample and compatibility with various chemicals.
2. Lid Material:
   • Polypropylene (PP) or Polyethylene (PE): Chosen to match the jar material for compatibility and chemical resistance.
   • Screw-On Cap or Snap-On Lid: Ensures a secure, leak-proof seal to prevent spillage and contamination.

Design and Features

1. Body:
   • Cylindrical Shape: Provides stability and ease of handling.
   • Transparent or Translucent: Allows for visual inspection of the contents without opening the jar.
   • Graduation Marks (Optional): Some jars may include graduation marks for measuring the volume of the sample.
2. Lid:
   • Leak-Proof Design: Ensures that the sample remains secure and free from contamination.
   • Easy to Open and Close: Facilitates repeated access to the sample while maintaining a tight seal.
   • Tamper-Evident (Optional): Some lids come with tamper-evident features to ensure the integrity of the sample.

Applications

1. Medical and Clinical Use:
   • Urine and Stool Samples: For diagnostic testing and analysis.
   • Biopsy Specimens: For storage and transport to pathology labs.
   • Histology Samples: Preserving tissue samples in fixative solutions.
2. Research Laboratories:
   • Chemical Samples: Storing and handling chemical reagents and solutions.
   • Biological Samples: Preserving and examining microorganisms, plant, and animal tissues.
   • Environmental Samples: Collecting soil, water, and air samples for analysis.
3. Educational Use:
   • Teaching Aids: Demonstrating sample collection and preservation techniques.
   • Student Experiments: Handling and storing various laboratory samples.

Advantages

1. Chemical Resistance: Suitable for a wide range of samples, including those with chemical reagents.
2. Durability: Resistant to breakage, ensuring the safety and integrity of the sample.
3. Autoclavable (for PP): Can be sterilized using an autoclave, making them reusable and safe for multiple uses.
4. Leak-Proof: Secure lids prevent spillage and contamination.
5. Clear Visibility: Allows easy inspection and monitoring of the contents.

Care and Maintenance

1. Cleaning:
   • Blade: Clean with appropriate solvents or detergents after each use to prevent contamination and corrosion. Rinse thoroughly with water.
   • Handle: Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately to prevent the wood from absorbing moisture.
   • Disinfection: If necessary, the blade can be disinfected with alcohol or other suitable disinfectants. Avoid prolonged exposure of the wooden handle to harsh chemicals.
2. Storage:
   • Store in a dry place to prevent moisture absorption and potential corrosion.
   • Keep lids loosely fitted when not in use to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
3. Usage Tips:
   • Ensure lids are tightly sealed before transporting specimens to prevent leaks.
   • Label jars clearly with relevant information such as sample type, date, and any other pertinent details.
   • Avoid exposing plastic jars to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures beyond their rated capacity.

Environmental Considerations

1. Reusability: Many specimen jars, especially those made from polypropylene, can be reused after proper cleaning and sterilization.
2. Recyclability: Plastic jars can often be recycled according to local recycling guidelines.
3. Sustainability: Choose jars made from sustainable materials and consider the environmental impact of single-use versus reusable options.

Conclusion

Specimen jars measuring 15 cm in height and 6 cm in diameter are versatile and essential tools for various applications in medical, research, and educational settings. Made from durable and chemically resistant materials, they ensure the safe and secure storage of a wide range of samples. Proper care and maintenance can extend their lifespan and ensure reliable performance, making them a valuable addition to any laboratory or medical facility.