The best 20 ml scintillation vial depends on how many samples you process, the closure you need, and whether your work requires a vial specifically described for liquid scintillation counting. The 500-piece options suit higher-volume labs, while 100-piece packs can fit smaller needs. For a general-purpose borosilicate option, check the thread finish carefully: one selection below uses 24-400 rather than the 22-400 finish listed for several scintillation products.
| Product | Pack Size | Standout Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gdncbm 20 ml Scintillation Vials | 500 | Foil and PE composite liner | Bulk sample storage |
| 20 ml Vials with 22-400 Caps | 500 | Markable lids; autoclave claim | Identified, reusable lab workflows |
| 20 ml Glass Vials with 24-400 Caps | 100 | Freezing and heat-sterilization claims | General sample storage |
| GAVKVAY 20 ml Scintillation Vials | 100 | 1.2 mm walls; markable caps | Smaller counting batches |
| 20 ml Scintillation Vials, 500-Pack | 500 | Preassembled caps | Bulk work with ready-to-use closures |
Gdncbm 20 ml Scintillation Vials
Best for: Laboratories that need a large supply of 20 ml vials and prioritize a liner intended to limit solvent loss and light exposure. This 500-piece pack is made from low-potassium borosilicate glass. The listing states that the glass meets ASTM E438 Type I, Class A and USP Type I standards.
The smooth inner surface is described as reducing sample adhesion, and the uniform walls support clear sample viewing. A broad, non-pointed base is intended to help the vial stand steadily. Its cap liner combines PE and aluminum foil: the listing says PE supports sealing while foil helps block light and solvent volatilization.
Consideration: The product details do not specify a cap thread finish. Confirm closure dimensions and fit for your workflow before ordering.
20 ml Vials with 22-400 Caps
Best for: Labs seeking a 500-piece pack with specified 22-400 threaded caps and markable lids. The vials are described as low-potassium borosilicate glass meeting ASTM E438 Type I, Class A and USP Type I standards. The listing also states a thermal expansion coefficient of 33 and heat tolerance up to 330°C.
Polypropylene caps with foil liners are presented as a leak-prevention feature, and the product description says the vials are autoclavable. Smooth interiors and uniform, thin walls are intended to support visibility, handling, and cleaning. Choose this option if cap labeling helps your sample-identification process.
Consideration: The stated temperature limit and autoclavability are product-listing claims. Confirm that the product’s instructions and your lab procedures support your intended use.
20 ml Glass Vials with 24-400 Caps
Best for: Buyers who need 100 general-purpose 20 ml borosilicate vials and value the listed freezing and heat-sterilization capabilities. The product description says the glass conforms to USP Type I and ASTM E438 Type I, Class A requirements. It also states that the vials can be frozen to -70°C and heat-sterilized at 121°C.
The listing describes the vials as suitable for storing organic solvents such as alcohol and acetone, as well as solid samples. The screw caps have PE liners, which are described as helping protect contents from leakage or volatilization during storage.
Consideration: This is not identified specifically as a liquid scintillation counting vial, and its 24-400 finish differs from the 22-400 finish on several other picks. Check thread compatibility before choosing it for counting equipment or a closure-specific process.
GAVKVAY 20 ml Scintillation Vials
Best for: Labs that need 100 vials for a smaller sample run and want specific wall-thickness information. The product listing describes low-potassium 3.3 borosilicate glass, a 22-400 polypropylene screw cap, and a silver aluminum foil liner. It states a 1.2 mm uniform wall thickness and says the smooth inner surface reduces sample adhesion.
The listing claims a 300°C temperature tolerance and describes the vials as designed for low background counts and consistent counting. Markable caps can help with sample identification and traceability. Choose this pack over a 500-piece option when a smaller listed quantity better matches your immediate need.
Consideration: The listing’s performance and temperature statements are manufacturer-provided claims; verify suitability against your method and handling requirements.
20 ml Scintillation Vials, 500-Pack
Best for: Higher-volume users who want a 500-vial supply with caps already assembled. The product is made from low-potassium borosilicate glass, and the listing says it conforms to ASTM E438 Type I, Class A requirements. Its polypropylene caps fit a GPI 22-400 thread finish and include silver aluminum foil liners.
The stated vial dimensions are 26.8 by 56.7 mm, with a 20 ml capacity. The listing describes the glass as offering light transmission and low background counts, and says it can withstand thermal stress up to 330°C. Choose this option if preassembled closures can simplify preparation.
Consideration: The listed dimensions may matter in storage racks or other holders. Check available space and your workflow before purchasing.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a 20 ml Scintillation Vial
Do you need a vial specifically for scintillation counting?
Start with the intended application. Several products here are explicitly described as scintillation or liquid scintillation counting vials. The 100-piece vial with 24-400 caps is presented as a general glass storage vial instead. Do not assume that a general-purpose vial suits a counting method; confirm the requirements of your instrument and protocol.
Which cap finish and liner should you select?
Compare thread finish before ordering. The listings identify 22-400 caps on several scintillation options, while the general-purpose vial uses 24-400 caps. These finishes are not interchangeable by assumption. Liner materials also differ in description: some products specify foil with PE, while others identify an aluminum foil liner. Match the closure to the sample and storage conditions.
How many vials should you buy?
Choose pack size based on expected use, available storage, and replacement needs. The 500-piece products are intended for bulk supply, while the 100-piece packs may be more practical for smaller batches or evaluation. Compare the listed quantity rather than assuming that all products include the same number of caps or accessories.
What temperature and material details matter?
Check the glass type, standards, and temperature claims against your method. Product listings cite borosilicate glass and, in some cases, ASTM or USP standards. Temperature statements vary, and listed limits do not replace lab validation or product instructions. Confirm that freezing, heating, sterilization, or solvent exposure is appropriate for the specific vial and cap combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 20 ml mean for a scintillation vial?
It is the capacity stated for the vial. Confirm the product’s dimensions and your protocol’s fill requirements before use.
Are all 20 ml vials in this list scintillation vials?
No. One option is described as a general-purpose glass vial rather than specifically as a scintillation counting vial.
Are 22-400 and 24-400 caps the same?
No. They are different listed thread finishes. Verify the vial and cap finish required for your application.
Do foil-lined caps prevent every leak?
No closure should be assumed leakproof in every condition. The listings describe sealing features, but users should follow handling guidance and validate suitability for their samples.
Which pack is better for a small lab order?
The 100-piece options provide a smaller listed quantity than the 500-piece choices. Select based on projected use and whether the vial’s finish and features match your process.