Question 1

What is an RIA vial used for?

Accepted Answer

An RIA vial is a small round-bottom tube used in radioimmunoassay and other immunoassays, where samples are processed and read using a gamma counter or analyser. Laboratories also use RIA vials for serum and plasma aliquots, sample dilutions and other small-volume applications.

Question 2

What is the standard size of an RIA vial?

Accepted Answer

The most common RIA vial size is 12 × 75 mm, with an approximate capacity of 5 mL. Shorter 12 × 40 mm RIA vials are also available. Both sizes typically use 12 mm caps.

Question 3

What is the difference between PP and PS RIA vials?

Accepted Answer

PP (polypropylene) RIA vials are translucent, autoclavable and resistant to many chemicals. PS (polystyrene) RIA vials are glass-clear, making samples easier to inspect, but they cannot be autoclaved and generally have lower chemical resistance and g-force tolerance.

Question 4

Can RIA vials be autoclaved?

Accepted Answer

Polypropylene (PP) RIA vials can generally be autoclaved if the manufacturer specifies that they are suitable for the intended sterilisation conditions. Polystyrene (PS) RIA vials cannot be autoclaved because the material may deform at high temperatures. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before sterilising a vial.

Question 5

Are RIA vials the same as blood collection vials?

Accepted Answer

No. Blood collection tubes may contain additives such as EDTA, clot activator, sodium fluoride or sodium citrate, and are often colour-coded according to the additive. RIA vials are generally plain, additive-free tubes intended for laboratory sample handling and should not replace designated blood collection tubes.

Question 6

Which vial is used for a CBC test?

Accepted Answer

A complete blood count (CBC) sample is usually collected in a lavender- or purple-top tube containing EDTA, which prevents clotting while preserving blood cells for analysis. Always follow the laboratory's sample collection protocol and the requirements of the testing system.

Question 7

What is the difference between a vial and an ampoule?

Accepted Answer

A vial is a container typically closed with a cap or stopper, allowing access to its contents and, depending on its design and intended use, repeated access. An ampoule is a sealed container, commonly made of glass, that must be opened by breaking its neck and is generally intended for single use. In laboratories, plastic vials are commonly used to hold and store samples.

Question 8

What affects the price of RIA vials?

Accepted Answer

RIA vial prices depend on factors such as material (PP or PS), size, whether caps are included, sterility, brand and the number of vials per pack. For bulk laboratory purchases, comparing the cost per vial across different pack sizes helps assess overall value.

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Vials for Diagnostics, Research and Sample Storage

Types of Laboratory Vials

RIA Vials