Hello
We're planning a series of experiments using epigenetic modifiers, e.g. SAHA. Given the inherent hazards of these compounds, the question has come up how to clean contaminated glassware such as media bottles etc. Will a wash in bleach before "normal" run in the lab dishwasher do (as is generally accepted for cytotoxic compounds)?
thanks in advance
Hi there!
It is likely that normal dishwashing is just fine for your purposes.
To be absolutely sure about the cleanliness of your glassware, you may choose from two approaches:
- ashing (all the organic material decomposes) is done usually at 450 - 600 degrees for 3 - 4 hours, but an ordinary electrical oven might do (250 - 300 degrees o/n), followed by normal or acid wash (e.g. with 10% HCl).
- chromic acid (sulfochromic acid) is the most efficient cleaning solution as it oxidizes all organic material that sticks to glass. Fill the beakers/bottles with chromic acid for over night.
To prepare chromic acid you will need ~50 grams of solid K2Cr2O7 or Na2Cr2O7 per liter of concentrated sulphuric acid. It takes time to dissolve, needs heating and constant stirring. Use glassware and teflon stirring bars. The working solution of chromic acid is reddish brown(ish). It turns dark green when becoming exhausted.
Don't ever pour water into sulfochromic acid.
Use prewashed glassware for final cleaning with sulfochromic acid.
As chromium salts are environmental poisons, special care has to be taken when disposing the waste.
Hello Einari
Thanks for the tips. I might just stick with bleach and a "heavy" run in the dishwasher. The chromic acid method sounds very thorough but seems to create more problems than it solves ;-)
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