Formalin cups are special containers designed to hold formalin, which is a solution of formaldehyde in water. Formalin is a common fixative and preservative used in the histology laboratory for the preservation of biological tissues, specimens, and samples. Formalin cups are typically made of glass or plastic with a tight-fitting lid to prevent spillage and evaporation of the formalin.
The following are the typical specifications of formalin cups:
- Volume capacity: 60 mL to 500 mL
- Material: glass, plastic, or polyethylene
- Lid: screw cap or snap-fit
- Graduated markings for accurate measurement
- Resistant to formaldehyde corrosion
The primary use of formalin cups is to hold formalin for the preservation of biological specimens, such as tissues, organs, and cells, for diagnostic and research purposes. Formalin fixes and preserves the morphology and structure of the specimens, allowing for the preparation of histological slides for microscopic analysis. Formalin cups are also used for the decontamination of laboratory surfaces and equipment that may have come in contact with potentially infectious materials.
