Polypropylene (PP) and polypropylene copolymer (PPCO) products can be autoclaved many times. We have PP containers in our lab that have been autoclaved over 100 times, and although they have yellowed somewhat, they are still in service.
Fluoropolymer products, i.e., PTFE, PFA, FEP, or ETFE, can all be autoclaved without problems, except for the stopcocks in Thermo Scientific™ Nalgene™ Separatory Funnels, which should not be autoclaved because of resultant leakage problems.
Polycarbonate (PC) products can be autoclaved with caution; they should not be exposed to alkaline detergents or steam additives, and they may withstand only up to 30-50 autoclaving cycles, depending on the use.
When autoclaving Nalgene™ bottles and carboys, completely disengage the closure from the bottle threads OR use a carboy vent. This is necessary because the leakproof Nalgene™ sealing system does not allow venting, which can cause these containers to collapse during the exhaust cycle.
Title: Which Thermo Scientific™ Nalgene™ plastics can I autoclave?
Description: Instructions on autoclaving Thermo Scientific™ Nalgene™ products.
Published: 6/13/2008
Last Edited: 12/28/2022
Information disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by
United States Plastic Corp. and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or
warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with
respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose.
Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss
or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of materials, time or profits arising out of,
or in connection with, the use of this information.