Sample Vials

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The term “vial” is somewhat undefined and is usually described as a small, cylindrical, and flat-bottomed containers used to hold liquids. Most sample vials are made of plastic or glass, and include a separate or attached lid or closure. Sample vials are categorized by material and also by their size or specific purpose.

  • Glass sample vials are categorized by the type of glass used to make them.
    • Type I, Class A glass sample vials are made from low-expansion borosilicate glass
    • Type I, Class B glass sample vials are made from an alumino-borosilicate glass
    • Type II are made from soda-lime glass
  • Plastic sample vials may be made from a variety of resins, including:
    • Polycarbonate
    • Polypropylene
    • Polystyrene
    • Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
    • High-density polyethylene (HDPE)

Glass sample vials may be clear or amber-colored (to protect the contents from ultraviolet light). Plastic sample vials are available in a range of colors, including amber, natural, and clear resins.

Types of Closures

Sample vials may have different types of closures, depending on their use and the material being stored.

  • Screw caps
    • For both glass and plastic sample vials
    • May be closed or open
    • Typically made from polypropylene or phenolic resin (with a variety of closure liners, including PE foam, PTFE, cork, tin, etc.)
  • Flip-top
    • Caps for plastic sample vials may be attached by a tether to the vial itself
    • Also called “captive” closures
  • Snap caps (external): Both glass and plastic sample vials
  • Plug caps (internal): Both glass and plastic sample vials
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