A Comparative Study of Lab Sealing Films on Alcohol Evaporation Rates: Waxfilm vs Parafilm

Laboratory sealing films play a crucial role in experimental integrity, especially in situations requiring the containment of volatile substances. An experiment was recently conducted to compare the performance of two widely known sealing films, Parafilm and Waxfilm, under controlled conditions. This study highlights significant differences in evaporation rates and mechanical performance between these two products.

The experiment was designed to simulate typical laboratory conditions with a focus on the containment of alcohol samples. The latest version of Parafilm, a long-standing industry standard, and the seventh generation of Waxfilm were tested. Both sealing films were used to seal identical vials containing measured alcohol samples.

The sealed vials were weighed before the test began, ensuring precise baseline measurements. They were then subjected to heating at a constant temperature of 45°C for 6.5 hours. This temperature was selected to represent a moderately high yet realistic condition for laboratory applications. After the heating process, the vials were weighed again to calculate the evaporation rates for each sealing film.

During the heating process, distinct physical differences emerged between the two films:

• Parafilm: The film cracked after prolonged exposure to heat, compromising the seal.
• Waxfilm: Although the film became concave under pressure, it maintained its integrity and did not rupture.

The results of the weight measurements were striking:

• The alcohol sample sealed with Waxfilm showed a weight loss of 0.0536 g (from 66.9009 g to 66.8473 g), corresponding to an evaporation rate of 0.08%.
• In contrast, the sample sealed with Parafilm exhibited a weight loss of 0.8498 g (from 67.1946 g to 66.3448 g), corresponding to an evaporation rate of 1.26%.

The data clearly indicate that Waxfilm provides superior containment of volatile substances compared to Parafilm. The significant difference in evaporation rates underscores Waxfilm's enhanced sealing performance, particularly under challenging conditions. Furthermore, Waxfilm's mechanical stability under heat and pressure suggests it is a more reliable choice for experiments where seal integrity is critical.

In contrast, the cracking of Parafilm after exposure to 45°C highlights its limitations in maintaining a stable seal under such conditions. The high evaporation rate observed with Parafilm further supports the need for alternative solutions like Waxfilm in modern laboratories.

This experiment demonstrates the exceptional performance of Waxfilm over Parafilm in sealing volatile samples. Waxfilm's durability and superior containment efficiency make it an invaluable tool for laboratory researchers. For those seeking reliable sealing solutions, Waxfilm represents a significant advancement in laboratory technology.

Click here to purchase Waxfilm from WelchLab and enhance your lab's sealing efficiency.