Here's an overview of cryogenic vials and their common features

Cryogenic vials are specialized containers designed for the storage and transportation of biological samples, tissues, cells, and other specimens at ultra-low temperatures, typically below -80°C (-112°F). These vials are constructed from materials that can withstand extreme cold temperatures without becoming brittle or cracking. Here's an overview of cryogenic vials and their common features:

1. Materials:

  - Polypropylene (PP): Most cryogenic vials are made from polypropylene, a durable and chemically inert plastic that can withstand extreme cold temperatures without becoming brittle.

  - Silicone O-Rings: Cryogenic vials often feature silicone O-rings or gaskets to create a secure and airtight seal, preventing leakage and contamination.

  - Sterile: Many cryogenic vials are sterilized using methods such as gamma irradiation or ethylene oxide (EtO) gas to ensure they are free from microbial contamination.

2. Design Features:

  - Screw Cap: Cryogenic vials typically have screw caps with a thread design that allows for easy and secure sealing. The screw caps may have a ribbed or knurled surface for enhanced grip, even when wearing gloves.

  - Self-Standing: Some cryogenic vials have a conical or skirted bottom design that allows them to stand upright on a flat surface, facilitating easy handling and storage.

  - Graduated: Many cryogenic vials are graduated with volume markings on the side, allowing for accurate measurement and sample identification.

  - Color-coded Caps: Cryogenic vials often have color-coded caps or inserts to facilitate sample identification and organization.

  - Barcoding: Some cryogenic vials feature barcode labels or areas for labeling with permanent markers, allowing for easy tracking and identification of samples.

3. Sizes and Capacities:

  - Cryogenic vials come in various sizes and capacities to accommodate different sample volumes, ranging from microcentrifuge-sized vials (e.g., 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, 2 mL) to larger cryovials (e.g., 5 mL, 10 mL, 15 mL).

  - Smaller cryogenic vials are commonly used for storage of individual samples or small aliquots, while larger vials are used for bulk storage of samples.

4. Applications:

  - Biobanking: Cryogenic vials are used in biobanking facilities to store and preserve biological samples, including blood, serum, plasma, DNA, RNA, cells, and tissues, for long-term storage and future research.

  - Cell Culture: Cryogenic vials are used in cell culture laboratories to store cell lines, primary cells, and stem cells at ultra-low temperatures for preservation and long-term storage.

  - Clinical Research: Cryogenic vials are used in clinical research laboratories to store clinical specimens, such as patient samples, diagnostic specimens, and biofluids, for analysis and research purposes.

  - Genomics and Proteomics: Cryogenic vials are used in genomics and proteomics research to store nucleic acids, proteins, enzymes, and other biomolecules for sequencing, analysis, and experimentation.

Overall, cryogenic vials are essential tools for the preservation and storage of biological samples and specimens at ultra-low temperatures, ensuring their integrity and viability for future use in scientific research, clinical diagnostics, and biobanking applications.