How to Find the Right Ultra-Cold Storage Solution for Your Samples
What should you consider when choosing a storage solution for your samples?
The choice of cold storage in your laboratory critically depends on the specific types of samples you intend to store. Below, we present a guide to different samples and the optimal storage solutions for these:
- Enzymes and biochemical reagents: Use standard freezers that offer a temperature range from -20°C to -30°C.
- Biological samples, vaccines, and blood products: Low-temperature freezers, operating in a temperature range from -30°C to -45°C, are ideal.
- Drugs, viruses, bacteria, cell preparations, tissue samples, and long-term storage: Ultra-low temperature freezers, ranging from -40°C to -86°C, are recommended.
- Effective Rack System for Storage: A well-organized rack system is crucial for optimal utilization of freezer space and for maintaining a good overview of the samples. Such systems are essential for laboratories handling a large number of samples and can be customized to individual needs.
Racks are compatible with boxes made of cardboard or polypropylene, which, equipped with dividers and unique numerical codes, make it easy to identify each sample. By using racks in your freezer, you achieve streamlined access to the samples and ensure efficient use of space.
Remember, each time the freezer door is opened, stress is introduced to the freezer through the intrusion of warm air and the loss of cold air. Therefore, it is important to be able to access the samples quickly and efficiently - a goal supported by a good rack system.