Answered
Pipettes are not universally acid-proof; their resistance to acids depends largely on the material they are made from. Glass pipettes, particularly those made from borosilicate glass, offer excellent resistance to a wide range of acids, including hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid. Borosilicate glass is designed to be chemically resistant to these substances, making it ideal for handling corrosive acids. However, plastic pipettes, commonly made from polypropylene or polystyrene, offer limited resistance to acids. While they can handle dilute acids for short periods, concentrated acids or prolonged exposure can cause these materials to degrade or become brittle. Some more specialized plastic pipettes are made from acid-resistant materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or PFA (perfluoroalkoxy), which are known for their ability to withstand even the most aggressive acids. Therefore, whether or not a pipette is acid-proof depends on both the material and the specific acid being used. For highly corrosive acids, it is recommended to use pipettes made from borosilicate glass or specialized plastics such as PTFE or PFA for safe handling.
BNO Team