stopple

A stopple is a type of stopper or plug used to seal an opening, typically in a bottle, flask, or other container. The term is often used interchangeably with "cork" or "bung," though it can refer to a wider variety of materials and designs. Stopples are crucial for preserving the contents of a container by preventing leakage, evaporation, and contamination from the outside environment.

Historically, stopples were primarily made from natural materials such as cork, wood, or wax. Cork stopples, derived from the bark of the cork oak tree, have been widely used for centuries due to their elasticity, impermeability, and ease of removal. Wooden stopples, often made from hardwoods, were also common, especially for larger vessels. Wax seals were frequently employed to provide an additional layer of security and indicate if a container had been tampered with.

In modern times, stopples are manufactured from a range of synthetic materials, including various plastics, rubber, and silicone. These materials offer advantages such as greater durability, consistent sealing properties, and resistance to certain chemicals. The design of a stopple can vary significantly depending on its intended use, ranging from simple tapered plugs to more complex screw-on caps with internal seals. The choice of stopple material and design is often dictated by factors such as the type of liquid or substance being stored, the required level of seal integrity, and the temperature and pressure conditions the container will experience.