Glass Test Tube

Standard handling procedures

Inspect and discard any damaged test tubes. Sweep up broken glass with brush and dustpan; do not use fingers. Do not insert finger in test tube, since it may become stuck and swell. Borosilicate test tubes are generally recommended if the contents are to be heated. Rimless borosilicate test tubes are known as "ignition tubes", but offer no advantage over tubes with rims for heating solids over a Bunsen flame.