Let’s Dive into Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C
The Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C might not be the kind of gear you’d strap to your tactical vest or pack on a backcountry trip, but in the controlled environment of a lab, they are absolute workhorses. From sample storage to high-throughput screening, these plates play a crucial role in scientific research and development. Manufactured by Axygen Scientific, a well-regarded name in laboratory consumables, these deep well plates promise reliability and quality.
My work supporting environmental DNA analysis required precise and contamination-free sample handling. Deep well plates are essential for that, and I’ve had issues with flimsy plates in the past which led to cross-contamination, so I decided to try the Axygen plates. The need for robust, contamination-free, and consistent well volumes drove my decision to explore this product.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the rigidity of the plate. These plates felt significantly more robust than the flimsy alternatives I’d used before, and the square wells looked precisely molded. The virgin polypropylene construction gave a clean, reassuring appearance.
Compared to other deep well plates I’ve used from brands like Eppendorf and Corning, the Axygen plates felt sturdier and the well design looked more uniform. The others felt somewhat flimsy, and after extended use the well walls would warp. I opted for these Axygen plates due to the combination of reported high purity and the square well design, which I thought might improve automated liquid handling precision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with relief. Finally, I’d found a brand that would not lead to well failures. The seemingly simple design, coupled with the reassuring feel of quality, gave me confidence that these plates would be a valuable addition to my lab workflow.
Real-World Testing: Putting Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C in my molecular biology lab. This included applications like DNA extraction, PCR reaction setup, and long-term sample storage at -20°C.
These plates performed admirably in varied conditions. From handling aqueous solutions to viscous DNA extraction buffers, they showed no signs of warping or leaking. I found the square wells particularly helpful when using multi-channel pipettes; the defined edges made accurate dispensing significantly easier. The square wells prevent fluid from creeping up the side walls.
The plates were incredibly easy to use straight out of the box. There was no need for any pre-treatment or preparation, simply load the samples and get to work. The uniform well dimensions also helped with automated liquid handling systems, reducing the need for calibration adjustments.
One pleasant surprise was the ease with which the Axygen plates sealed with standard adhesive films and heat seals. Poorly manufactured plates often have uneven surfaces, which can lead to incomplete sealing and potential contamination, but the flat upper surface of these plates ensured a tight and reliable seal every time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C have proven their reliability. The plates show minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
The virgin polypropylene construction has shown excellent chemical resistance. I tested the plates with various solvents and reagents commonly used in molecular biology, and there was no evidence of degradation or leaching. This chemical resistance is extremely important to keep the sample pure.
Cleaning the plates after use has been straightforward; I typically use a mild detergent and rinse thoroughly with distilled water. The smooth, non-porous surface prevents contaminants from adhering, making cleaning quick and easy. These outperform previous plates in terms of how pristine they look after cleaning.
Compared to my past experiences with cheaper plates, the Axygen plates are a clear winner in terms of durability and reliability. The consistent well volume, robust construction, and chemical resistance make them a worthwhile investment for any lab that demands high-quality results.
Breaking Down the Features of Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C
Specifications
Working Well Volume: 2.20 mL. This large volume is ideal for applications where sample concentration is low or where multiple reagents need to be added.
Sterility: Nonsterile. While this means you’ll need to autoclave or sterilize the plates yourself if sterile conditions are required, it also offers flexibility for non-sterile applications.
Axygen No.: P-2ML-SQ-C. This is the specific product identifier for easy reordering and verification.
Material: 99.9% pure virgin polypropylene. This ensures the plates are free from RNase, DNase, and pyrogens, critical for sensitive molecular biology applications. The high purity of the material also contributes to its chemical resistance and durability.
The specified well volume directly impacts the range of applications for which these plates are suitable. The non-sterile designation informs the user about necessary pre-use preparations.
Performance & Functionality
The Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C excels in its primary function: reliable sample storage and processing. The square wells improve the precision of automated liquid handling. The rigidity of the plates prevents warping and leaking, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.
The biggest strength is the consistent well volume and the reliable sealing. A minor improvement would be pre-sterilized options, but this is easily addressed through standard autoclaving procedures. The plates meet and exceed expectations, providing a level of confidence in sample integrity that I haven’t experienced with other brands.
Design & Ergonomics
The plates are made from durable polypropylene and feel robust in hand. The plates are lightweight, yet rigid, making them easy to handle and transport. The square well design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, providing a more defined target for pipetting.
These plates are incredibly user-friendly; there’s virtually no learning curve involved. The standard 96-well format ensures compatibility with a wide range of lab equipment and automated systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction suggests a long lifespan with appropriate care. Polypropylene is known for its excellent chemical resistance and ability to withstand repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning with mild detergents. The smooth, non-porous surface makes it easy to remove contaminants and prevent carryover.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product description mentions compatible sealing mats, specifically the standard AxyMat* and the chemically resistant ImpermaMat*. *These mats provide a reliable seal to prevent evaporation and contamination during storage or incubation.* Barcoding options are also available through custom orders, facilitating sample tracking and management in high-throughput workflows.
The compatibility with standard sealing films and mats expands the versatility of these plates. The availability of barcoding further enhances their utility in automated laboratory environments.
Pros and Cons of Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C
Pros
- Exceptional purity: Manufactured from 99.9% pure virgin polypropylene, guaranteeing RNase-, DNase-, and pyrogen-free samples.
- Robust construction: The plates are noticeably more rigid than cheaper alternatives, preventing warping and leaking.
- Precise well geometry: The square wells enhance the accuracy of automated liquid handling and multichannel pipetting.
- Reliable sealing: The flat upper surface ensures a tight and consistent seal with adhesive films and heat seals.
- Excellent chemical resistance: The polypropylene material is resistant to a wide range of solvents and reagents commonly used in molecular biology.
Cons
- Non-sterile: Requires autoclaving or sterilization for applications requiring sterile conditions.
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to some other deep well plates on the market.
Who Should Buy Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C?
The Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C are perfect for molecular biologists, biochemists, and researchers working with precious samples or high-throughput assays. Anyone needing reproducible and reliable results in genomics, proteomics, or drug discovery will find these plates an invaluable asset.
Researchers working with limited budgets or those who don’t require stringent purity standards might find cheaper alternatives adequate. A must-have accessory is a compatible sealing mat (AxyMat* or ImpermaMat*) to prevent evaporation and contamination.
Conclusion on Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C
The Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C are not just another lab consumable; they are an investment in the integrity and reliability of your research. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the exceptional purity, robust construction, and precise well geometry justify the cost.
The plates deliver on their promise of consistent performance, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring reproducible results. I would wholeheartedly recommend these plates to any researcher or lab professional seeking high-quality, reliable deep well plates.
If you value accuracy, reliability, and peace of mind in your lab work, the Axygen 96-Well Deep Well Plates, Square Wells, Axygen Scientific P-2ML-SQ-C are an excellent choice. Upgrade your research today and experience the difference that quality consumables can make!