Choosing the correct combination of microplate closure for each type of microplate is important to achieving best laboratory practice and to avoid unnecessary work further downstream.

Microplates are a convenient method for storing, transporting and handling compounds and samples, but they have common problems associated with them. Evaporation can occur from the wells of the plate which can affect concentration readings. Contamination from dust, spores or other atmospheric detritus may occur and spillage is a constant danger whenever microplates are used for transport. Add to this the general risks of cross-contamination in the denser formats such as 96- and 384-well plates and it is easy to see why a closure device of some sort is to be preferred.

Microplates can be closed in a number of ways. The most common groups of closures are:

• Single-use closures such as Thermal seals (Sheets) and Adhesive seals
• Reusable closures such as Friction seals (Cap Mats) and Moulded Sealing Mats
• Continuous rolls of Thermal seals (Rolls) for use with automated heat sealing instruments

We offer a comprehensive range of sealing films and foils for thermal and adhesive sealing of microplates, re-usable cap mats for friction sealing of microplates plates including moulded liners that lock into the vials, specialist sealing films for PCR and cold storage, cell and tussue culture, ELISA, EIA and similar arrays, along with universal lids for microplates.

Guide to microplate closure and sealing

Please select from the subcategories shown or contact us for help in selecting the product for your application.