Pathology Lab Clean Equipment: Materials Guide

Material choice directly impacts:

• Hygiene and Contamination Control – Smooth, non-porous surfaces reduce microbial growth.
• Chemical Resistance – Resistant to fixatives, disinfectants, and reagents.
• Durability and Longevity – Able to withstand daily wear and tear.
• Regulatory Compliance – Meets ISO, GMP, and GLP standards.

Optimizing materials ensures your pathology lab equipment performs reliably and lasts longer.

• Features: Corrosion-resistant, smooth, non-porous.
• Applications: Lab benches, sinks, fume hoods, storage cabinets.
• Benefits: Easy to clean, durable, resistant to most chemicals.
• Note: SUS316 offers superior chemical resistance for harsh reagents.

• Features: Lightweight, chemical-resistant plastics.
• Applications: Reagent cabinets, waste containers, sample racks.
• Benefits: Resistant to acids and bases, easy to sanitize.
• Note: Less mechanically strong; prone to scratches.

• Features: Heat-resistant, chemically inert.
• Applications: Work surfaces, microscope slide storage, reagent bottles.
• Benefits: Non-reactive, sterilizable.
• Note: Fragile; handle with care.

• Features: Transparent, high impact resistance.
• Applications: Protective shields, fume hood windows, sample enclosures.
• Benefits: Lightweight, clear visibility.
• Note: Can scratch easily; avoid certain solvents.

• Features: Cost-effective metal with protective coating.
• Applications: Shelving, carts, non-critical cabinets.
• Benefits: Durable and customizable in color.
• Note: Coating can chip over time, exposing steel.

1. Chemical Compatibility: Ensure resistance to disinfectants and reagents.
2. Ease of Cleaning: Non-porous surfaces simplify sanitation.
3. Mechanical Strength: Withstand daily usage and accidental impact.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Materials should meet ISO 14644 and other standards.
5. Cost vs Longevity: Balance budget with material durability.

• Clean regularly with lab-approved disinfectants.
• Avoid abrasive tools that can scratch surfaces.
• Inspect for corrosion, cracks, or damage and replace parts promptly.
• Use protective liners for areas exposed to strong chemicals.

Choosing the right materials for pathology lab clean equipment is critical for maintaining hygiene, durability, and compliance. Stainless steel remains the top choice for most applications, while plastics and glass offer specialized benefits. By understanding the properties and limitations of each material, labs can optimize performance, safety, and longevity.