What is the difference between CryoTube Vials with
internal and external thread?
Internally threaded CryoTube Vials are designed for vapor phase liquid nitrogen
freezing. The cap incorporates a silicone gasket to enhance sealing properties.
Externally threaded CryoTube Vials are designed for mechanical freezing. The
external screw cap reduces risk of contamination due to handling.
Can NUNC Brand CryoTube Vials be immersed in liquid
nitrogen (liquid phase) for storage?
The CryoTube Vial of choice for liquid N2 immersion is the internally threaded
design, incorporating a silicone gasket. At ultra low temperatures, any sealing
material becomes inflexible. A theoretical risk of leakage is present when any
mechanical closure is used. To facilitate leakproof storage, mechanically closed
containers must be hermetically sealed in a protective envelope. The Nunc
CryoSystem includes CryoFlex Tubing, a heat sealable polyethylene tubing
designed for CryoTube Vial encasement. The use of CryoTube vials for freezing in
liquid nitrogen (liquid phase) storage without CryoFlex Tubing poses a safety
hazard.
Warning: Do not use NUNC CryoTube Vials in liquid phase of liquid nitrogen unless correctly sealed in NUNC CryoFlex Tubing (Cat. No. 343958). Improper use may cause entrapment of liquefied nitrogen inside the vial and lead to pressure build-up, resulting in possible explosion or biohazard release. Use appropriate safety procedures as outlined in the Nalge Nunc International Cryopreservation Manual when handling and disposing of the vials.
What is the protocol for thawing cells when CryoTub
Vials are previously immersed in liquid nitrogen without CryoFlex Tubing?
Wear appropriate protective clothing including gloves, face guard, etc., during
all transfer processes.
The CryoTube Vials should be stored at least 24 hours in the gas phase of the
liquid nitrogen freezer. This should allow trapped liquid nitrogen to evaporate
and escape slowly, thereby reducing the possible pressure in the CryoTube Vial.
After at least 24 hour storage in the gas phase, the CryoTube Vials may be put
into a water bath and covered with a towel. After thawing, tube contents can be
transferred.
Will the heat required to properly seal CryoFlex
Tubing adversely affect my cells?
CryoTube Vials are normally placed in a 4°C ice bath during cell inoculation
into the CryoTube Vial. The heat required to shrink the polyethylene CryoFlex
Tubing will not raise the internal temperature enough to damage the cells. At
this stage, cryoprotective agents are added.
Are the CryoColor Coders removable?
Once inserted, the color tab inserts cannot be removed.
Are the CryoColor Coders compatible with all NUNC
Brand CryoTube Vials? CryoColor Coders are compatible with most of our
CryoTube Vials except Cat. No. 375299, 1.0 ml stepneck round bottom and Cat. No.
340711, 1.8. ml stepneck round bottom vials.