Vials

A vial is a small container typically made from glass or plastic, designed to hold liquids or powders. Vials are commonly used in medical, laboratory, and pharmaceutical settings for storing, transporting, and administering substances such as medications, biological samples, or reagents. They often feature a narrow neck and a closure mechanism, such as a rubber stopper or a screw cap, to ensure sterility and prevent contamination.

Glass vials, often made from borosilicate or soda-lime glass, are preferred in many applications due to their chemical resistance, durability, and compatibility with various substances. Plastic vials, typically made from materials like polypropylene or polyethylene, offer alternatives that are lightweight, shatterproof, and cost-effective, though they may have limitations in terms of chemical resistance and sterilizability. Both types are available in a range of sizes, from microliter volumes for laboratory use to milliliter or liter capacities for larger-scale storage.

In pharmaceuticals, vials are frequently used to package injectable drugs, vaccines, and other sterile medications. The contents are often preserved with additives like antioxidants, buffers, or preservatives to maintain stability. Laboratory vials are essential for storing biological samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue cultures, as well as chemical reagents used in experiments. Proper labeling and handling are critical to avoid misidentification, contamination, or degradation of the stored material.

Vials are typically sealed with a rubber septum or a metal or plastic cap to maintain sterility. Some vials include additional features, such as tamper-evident seals or pre-filled solutions, depending on their intended use. Due to their widespread applications, vials must comply with strict quality and safety standards, particularly in regulated industries like healthcare and biotechnology. Proper disposal of used vials is also important to minimize environmental and health risks.