Date: 17-JANUARY-2014 Last Updated: 13-AUGUST-2026
Overview
Proper storage of capillary electrophoresis (CE) capillaries is important for maintaining consistent performance and maximizing capillary lifetime. Simplus™ Bare Fused Silica Capillaries should be stored under controlled conditions that help preserve the integrity of both the fused silica and the internal capillary surface.
Storage requirements differ slightly depending on whether the capillary will be reused in the near future or stored for an extended period.
Short-Term Storage
For capillaries that will be reused within a relatively short period of time:
- Store at room temperature.
- Protect from physical damage.
- Keep away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
- Avoid sharp bends or excessive stress.
Many laboratories store capillaries near the instrument to support convenient reuse between analyses.
Long-Term Storage
For extended storage periods:
- Fill the capillary with water.
- Store at room temperature.
- Protect the capillary from contamination and physical damage.
Filling the capillary with water helps maintain the internal environment during prolonged storage and prepares the capillary for future use.
Temperature Considerations
Simplus™ Bare Fused Silica Capillaries should always be stored at room temperature.
Recommended practices include:
- Do not refrigerate.
- Do not freeze.
- Do not expose to elevated temperatures during storage.
- Allow capillaries to remain at room temperature prior to use.
Extreme temperature conditions are not recommended and may negatively affect capillary handling and performance.
Best Practices
To maximize capillary life:
- Store capillaries in a clean environment.
- Protect open ends from contamination.
- Avoid mechanical stress and impact.
- Handle carefully during installation and removal.
- Follow normal flushing and conditioning procedures before use.
Routine care and proper storage can help maintain reproducible electrophoretic performance and reduce the likelihood of capillary-related issues.
Key Takeaways
- Store Simplus™ capillaries at room temperature.
- For short-term reuse, room-temperature storage is sufficient.
- For long-term storage, fill the capillary with water and store at room temperature.
- Never refrigerate, freeze, or heat capillaries during storage.
- Protect capillaries from contamination and physical damage.