CO2inkubatorer

CO2inkubatorer, or CO2 incubators, are laboratory instruments designed to maintain a stable environment for cell cultures. They are crucial for biological research, particularly in fields like cell biology, tissue engineering, and cancer research. The primary function of a CO2 incubator is to provide precise control over temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels. This controlled atmosphere mimics the physiological conditions found within the human body, which is essential for the growth and maintenance of most cell lines.

The typical temperature maintained in a CO2 incubator is 37 degrees Celsius, reflecting normal human body temperature. Humidity is kept high, usually around 95%, to prevent the evaporation of culture media. The carbon dioxide concentration is typically set at 5%, which helps to regulate the pH of the culture medium. This is achieved through a buffer system within the medium, such as the bicarbonate buffer system. Fluctuations in CO2 can lead to drastic changes in pH, which can be detrimental to cell viability.

CO2 incubators come in various sizes and configurations, from small benchtop models to large, multi-chamber units. Advanced models often include features like HEPA filtration to maintain sterile conditions, shake trays for suspension cultures, and data logging capabilities to monitor environmental parameters. The internal chamber is usually made of stainless steel for ease of cleaning and sterilization. Proper operation and maintenance of CO2 incubators are vital to ensure the reliability and reproducibility of experimental results.