Upon adding CCl4 (Carbon tetrachloride) to my in vitro sample, I noticed bubbles or maybe the plastic being degraded at the bottom of the 12 well plate. The concentration used was 4mM, which is in the normal testing range.
The first time and third time I used the chemical, I had no issues. The second, fourth, and fifth time, I see the bubble formation, which seems to 'trap' a few of the floating cells in the center of the 'bubbles'. Attached is quick image for reference.
The drug is being taken out with a needle through the Sure/Seal system. Any advise/know what the problem is?
Most plastic plates are made of polystyrene, which is not compatible with carbon tetrachloride, meaning the solvent will dissolve the plate.
The density of carbon tetrachloride is higher than that of water, so it will sink to the bottom, where it will dissolve the plastic.
Furthermore, carbon tetrachloride is not miscible with water, so it will either form an emulsion (which would look like bubbles) if it is mixed in with considerable agitation, or a layer at the bottom.
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