Cryogenic Storage Vials-COP(Cyclo Olefin Polymer) vial

 In the world of medical research, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, storing biological samples at ultra-low temperatures is critical. Samples such as cells, tissues, proteins, or DNA must be preserved in a manner that maintains their viability and integrity for long-term use. Cryogenic storage vials are an essential tool in this preservation process, ensuring that samples remain frozen at temperatures as low as -196°C. Among the different materials available, COP (Cyclic Olefin Polymer) cryogenic storage vials are highly valued for their durability, purity, and compatibility with extremely low temperatures. We'll dive into the importance of cryogenic storage vials, particularly focusing on COP vials and their applications at -196°C.

Polymer Vial 2ml 5ml 10ml for cell and gene therapies

What Are Cryogenic Storage Vials?

Cryogenic storage vials are specialized containers designed to hold and protect biological samples during storage at ultra-low temperatures, commonly ranging from -80°C to -196°C. These temperatures are necessary for preserving sensitive biological materials without causing degradation, enzyme activity, or loss of cellular function.

Sterility and Compatibility

COP cryogenic vials are easily sterilized and are compatible with gamma irradiation, steam, and ethylene oxide sterilization. This makes them highly reliable for use in both clinical and research environments, where maintaining sterile conditions is paramount.

RTU(ready to use) 2ml COP vial

The Importance of -196°C: What Happens at This Temperature?

The temperature -196°C corresponds to the boiling point of liquid nitrogen, a common cryogen used in the storage of biological materials. At this temperature, cellular metabolism halts, preserving cells and tissues in a suspended state. Enzyme activity and other biological processes cease, preventing cellular damage that could occur at higher storage temperatures.

This extreme cold is critical for long-term storage, ensuring that samples remain viable for years. COP cryogenic storage vials are specifically designed to maintain their integrity under such conditions, preventing the vials from becoming brittle or compromising the stored samples.

Applications of COP Cryogenic Vials

Cryogenic storage vials are used across a wide range of industries and applications:

Biobanking: COP vials are widely used in biobanks, where human tissues, DNA, and other biological samples are stored for future research.

Pharmaceutical Research: Cryogenic vials play an important role in drug development, where biological samples need to be preserved over long periods for study.

Cell and Gene Therapy: Many therapies involve the use of preserved cells, and cryogenic vials are an essential component of these treatments.

Genomics and Proteomics: Researchers involved in sequencing DNA or studying proteins rely on cryogenic vials to maintain the stability of their samples at ultra-low temperatures.

Conclusion

Cryogenic storage vials made from cyclic olefin polymer (COP) offer a superior solution for storing biological samples at temperatures as low as -196°C. Whether you’re working in biobanking, pharmaceutical research, or cell therapy, COP cryogenic vials provide the reliability and protection necessary to safeguard your valuable samples.

Why COP Bottles Do Not Change Color After Irradiation Sterilization

 Irradiation sterilization is a critical step in pharmaceutical, medical, and food packaging industries to ensure that products are free from harmful microorganisms. While materials like glass and some plastics can change in appearance or degrade after exposure to radiation, Cyclo Olefin Polymer (COP) bottles remain remarkably stable. This stability makes COP an ideal material for sensitive applications. In this blog, we will explore why COP vials do not change color after irradiation sterilization and why they are preferred for sterile packaging solutions.

after Irradiation Sterilization

What is Irradiation Sterilization?

Irradiation sterilization uses ionizing radiation—such as gamma rays, electron beams, or X-rays—to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This method is particularly effective because it penetrates deep into materials without the need for high temperatures, making it suitable for heat-sensitive products.

However, ionizing radiation can affect some materials by altering their molecular structure. For instance, certain plastics may discolor, become brittle, or lose mechanical strength. These changes can compromise product appearance and integrity, posing risks in applications that require high material performance and transparency.

What is COP?

Cyclo Olefin Polymer (COP) is a high-performance thermoplastic known for several desirable properties:

RTU(ready to use) 2ml COP vial

Optical clarity: Similar to glass, making it suitable for transparent containers.

High chemical resistance: Compatible with sensitive substances, including pharmaceuticals.

Dimensional stability: Resists deformation under varying temperatures and conditions.

Low extractables: Reduces the risk of contamination, making it ideal for medical and biological storage.

COP has become the material of choice for injectable drug containers, pre-filled syringes, diagnostic kits, and laboratory equipment, where sterility and product integrity are critical.

Why Do COP Vials Resist Color Change After Irradiation?

Stable Molecular Structure

COP is engineered with a highly stable carbon backbone. Unlike some polymers, it lacks certain chemical groups—such as aromatic rings or carbonyl groups—that are prone to reacting with radiation energy. As a result, irradiation does not trigger molecular breakdown or rearrangement that would cause discoloration.

100ml polymer vial

Resistance to Oxidation

Oxidation reactions are one of the main culprits behind color changes in irradiated materials. COP’s structure is resistant to oxidation, meaning fewer byproducts form that could affect color or transparency.

Minimal Crosslinking or Chain Scission

In many polymers, irradiation causes crosslinking (linking of molecular chains) or chain scission (breaking of chains), which can alter the material's appearance and performance. COP exhibits minimal crosslinking under radiation exposure, preserving its clarity and physical properties.

Low Additive Content

Some plastics contain additives, like dyes, stabilizers, or plasticizers, which may degrade under radiation and cause discoloration. COP typically has low or no additives, ensuring that it remains stable during sterilization.

Application of HDPE container with desiccant cap in dry syrup

In the pharmaceutical industry, dry syrup is a popular oral dosage form for children and elderly patients due to its high bioavailability and good drug stability. However, the effectiveness of dry syrup depends largely on its storage conditions, especially moisture-proof measures. This article will explore the important application of pharmaceutical HDPE desiccant bottles in the storage of dry syrup and its impact on drug stability.

50ml desiccant bottle with CRC

Characteristics and advantages of dry syrup

Dry syrup is usually in powder form and needs to be mixed with water before taking, which is convenient for patients to take. Compared with traditional tablets and capsules, dry syrup can disintegrate outside the mouth and quickly form a uniform suspension, thereby improving bioavailability. This makes dry syrup the preferred dosage form for many drugs, especially those for pediatric patients.

Storage Challenge: The Importance of Moisture-proof

The storage conditions of dry syrup directly affect its effectiveness. Due to the special nature of its ingredients, once affected by moisture, it may cause the drug to deteriorate, decompose or become ineffective. Therefore, moisture-proof measures are key to ensuring the stability and efficacy of dry syrup.

desiccant bottle with silica gel

Design and materials of pharmaceutical HDPE container with desiccant cap

Pharmaceutical moisture-proof bottles are usually made of polyethylene or polypropylene materials, which have good barrier properties and can effectively isolate external moisture and impurities to protect the drug ingredients in the bottle. In addition, the design of moisture-proof bottles usually takes into account sealing performance to ensure a dry internal environment.

To further enhance the moisture-proof effect, desiccants are generally placed in pharmaceutical moisture-proof bottles, and desiccants are usually placed on the top of the lid. These desiccants can effectively absorb the residual moisture in the bottle to ensure that the dry syrup remains stable throughout the storage period. By maintaining low humidity, desiccants help prevent physical and chemical deterioration of drugs, thereby ensuring that the efficacy is not affected.

Pharmaceutical moisture-proof bottles play a vital role in the application of dry syrups. By selecting the right materials and designs, and combining them with effective desiccants, these desiccant bottles provide a stable storage environment for dry syrups, ensuring the long-term effectiveness and safety of drugs.

DMF Grade HDPE Bottles

 In industries like pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and nutraceuticals, maintaining product integrity is non-negotiable. One critical factor in this process is the choice of packaging. DMF grade HDPE bottles have become a preferred packaging solution for many companies because of their superior quality, regulatory compliance, and reliability. 

HDPE bottle with child resistant closure

What Is a Drug Master File (DMF)?

A DMF is a confidential submission to the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) containing detailed information about a material, component, or process used in the manufacturing of drug products. It provides supporting documentation to assist companies and regulatory bodies in evaluating the safety and quality of these components.

What Is a Type III DMF?

Type III DMFs focus specifically on packaging materials used in pharmaceutical products. These packaging components ensure that the drug product remains stable, uncontaminated, and effective throughout its shelf life. This type of DMF applies to a wide variety of packaging items used in pharmaceutical applications, including bottles, caps, seals, and other protective materials.

Examples of Packaging Materials Covered Under Type III DMFs

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) Bottles

Used for tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations.

FDA-compliant, non-leaching, moisture-resistant material.

Often paired with desiccant caps for moisture-sensitive products.

HDPE containers with desiccant cap

Closures and Caps

Child-resistant caps for safety.

Tamper-evident seals to ensure integrity and prevent contamination.

Flexible Films and Foils

 

28mm child resistant cap 

DMF Grade HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) bottles are bottles manufactured according to the stringent standards outlined in these submissions. They are widely used in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and medical packaging to ensure compliance with regulatory norms.

Key Features of DMF Grade HDPE Bottles

1.Manufactured with US DMF-approved raw materials to meet the highest regulatory standards.

2.Produced in a cGMP compliance to ensure product purity and safety.

3.100% quality inspection using advanced, highly calibrated inspection systems.

4.All pharmaceutical plastic packaging complies with updated USP <661>& <671> standards for material safety and performance.

5.High-capacity production guarantees on-time delivery and supply consistency.

6.Packaging is designed with uniform wall thickness, minimal taper, and concavity to allow for smooth, wrinkle-free labeling, ensuring a professional presentation.

Plastic Effervescent Tablet Packaging Compared to Aluminum Packaging

 When it comes to packaging effervescent tablets, both plastic and aluminum have their merits. However, plastic packaging has several distinct advantages over aluminum, making it a popular choice for manufacturers. Here’s a look at the key benefits of plastic packaging compared to aluminum:

effervescent tablet packaging

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Lower Production Costs: Plastic is cheaper to produce than aluminum, which makes it more cost-effective for both manufacturers and consumers. The lower cost of plastic packaging can make effervescent products more affordable and accessible to a wider market.

Economical for Large-Scale Production: For companies producing effervescent tablets in large quantities, plastic packaging offers significant savings in manufacturing and packaging costs compared to aluminum.

2. Lightweight Design

Easier Transportation: Plastic packaging is significantly lighter than aluminum. This reduces transportation costs, making it more economical to ship, especially for bulk orders or international distribution.

Consumer Convenience: The lightweight nature of plastic packaging makes it more portable for consumers, who may appreciate the ease of carrying effervescent tablets while traveling or on-the-go.

3. Durability and Flexibility

Resistant to Breakage: Plastic is highly flexible and less prone to denting, cracking, or breaking under pressure compared to aluminum. It can withstand rough handling during shipping, making it a reliable choice for packaging.

Impact Resistance: Plastic packaging can absorb impacts better than aluminum, offering protection for the effervescent tablets during transport and use, which reduces the risk of damage to the product.

4. Customizability and Branding

Versatile Design Options: Plastic can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes, providing more freedom in packaging design. It allows for transparent or opaque packaging, which can cater to different branding needs and enhance product visibility.

Vibrant Printing: Plastic packaging is easy to customize with brand logos, colors, and marketing messages. Unlike aluminum, which typically has a more uniform metallic look, plastic can offer a wide range of visual options that can help a brand stand out on shelves.

5. Moisture Control Features

Desiccant Stoppers: While plastic packaging is not as moisture-resistant as aluminum, it is typically fitted with moisture-absorbing caps or desiccant stoppers. These features help maintain the integrity of effervescent tablets by controlling humidity levels inside the packaging.

Cost-Effective Moisture Protection: Plastic offers an adequate level of moisture protection at a lower cost than aluminum, making it a balanced option for products that need moderate humidity control without the premium cost of aluminum.

6. Ease of Use

Consumer-Friendly: Plastic packaging tends to be more user-friendly in terms of opening and closing. Many plastic containers feature easy-to-use snap-on or twist-off caps that provide consumers with convenient access to the tablets.

Reusability: Plastic containers are often easier to reuse for various purposes, such as storage, which adds a practical benefit for consumers post-use.

desiccant cap

Conclusion

While aluminum packaging has its strengths, such as superior moisture resistance and a premium feel, plastic packaging holds significant advantages in terms of cost, weight, flexibility, and ease of use. It is more affordable to produce, lightweight for transportation, and durable enough to withstand everyday handling. Additionally, its customizability provides opportunities for creative branding and design, making it a versatile and practical choice for many effervescent products.

What is a Cap with Integrated Desiccant?

 In industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and dietary supplements, moisture control is crucial for ensuring the quality and longevity of products. Excess moisture can compromise product stability, reduce shelf life, and affect the performance of sensitive items like medicines or supplements. One solution that has revolutionized packaging in these sectors is the cap with integrated desiccant. This innovative packaging technology provides superior moisture protection, keeping products fresh and effective for longer periods.

28mm Silica Gel Cap with Child Resistant

What is a Cap with Integrated Desiccant?

A cap with integrated desiccant combines traditional bottle closures with a built-in desiccant material that absorbs moisture. Desiccants, such as silica gel, activated carbon, or molecular sieves, are commonly used to remove humidity from enclosed environments. By integrating these moisture-absorbing agents directly into the cap, manufacturers eliminate the need for separate desiccant packets or canisters, simplifying the packaging process.

50ml pharma desiccant bottle

These desiccant caps are particularly popular for packaging sensitive products, such as pharmaceuticals, vitamins, supplements, and certain foods, that require protection from moisture to maintain their potency and freshness.

Key Features of Desiccant Caps

Moisture Absorption: The primary function of desiccant caps is to absorb and trap moisture that enters the bottle after it has been sealed. This keeps the interior of the container dry, protecting the product from degradation caused by humidity.

Built-In Design: Instead of loose desiccant packets or inserts, the moisture-absorbing material is integrated directly into the cap, either as part of the lining or molded into a specific compartment within the cap itself.

Convenience: The integration of desiccants in the cap eliminates the risk of accidental ingestion of loose packets, a common concern in pharmaceutical packaging, especially for consumers with children or pets.

desiccant bottle with silica gel

Customizable: Desiccant caps can be customized in terms of desiccant capacity, cap size, and material, making them versatile across different product lines. This flexibility ensures that manufacturers can meet the specific moisture control needs of their products.

Reusability: Some desiccant caps can be regenerated for multiple uses, providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for long-term storage.

Plastic Effervescent Tablet Packaging Compared to Aluminum Packaging

 When it comes to packaging effervescent tablets, both plastic and aluminum have their merits. However, plastic packaging has several distinct advantages over aluminum, making it a popular choice for manufacturers. Here’s a look at the key benefits of plastic packaging compared to aluminum:

effervescent tablet packaging

1. Cost-Effectiveness

Lower Production Costs: Plastic is cheaper to produce than aluminum, which makes it more cost-effective for both manufacturers and consumers. The lower cost of plastic packaging can make effervescent products more affordable and accessible to a wider market.

Economical for Large-Scale Production: For companies producing effervescent tablets in large quantities, plastic packaging offers significant savings in manufacturing and packaging costs compared to aluminum.

2. Lightweight Design

Easier Transportation: Plastic packaging is significantly lighter than aluminum. This reduces transportation costs, making it more economical to ship, especially for bulk orders or international distribution.

Consumer Convenience: The lightweight nature of plastic packaging makes it more portable for consumers, who may appreciate the ease of carrying effervescent tablets while traveling or on-the-go.

3. Durability and Flexibility

Resistant to Breakage: Plastic is highly flexible and less prone to denting, cracking, or breaking under pressure compared to aluminum. It can withstand rough handling during shipping, making it a reliable choice for packaging.

Impact Resistance: Plastic packaging can absorb impacts better than aluminum, offering protection for the effervescent tablets during transport and use, which reduces the risk of damage to the product.

4. Customizability and Branding

Versatile Design Options: Plastic can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes, providing more freedom in packaging design. It allows for transparent or opaque packaging, which can cater to different branding needs and enhance product visibility.

Vibrant Printing: Plastic packaging is easy to customize with brand logos, colors, and marketing messages. Unlike aluminum, which typically has a more uniform metallic look, plastic can offer a wide range of visual options that can help a brand stand out on shelves.

5. Moisture Control Features

Desiccant Stoppers: While plastic packaging is not as moisture-resistant as aluminum, it is typically fitted with moisture-absorbing caps or desiccant stoppers. These features help maintain the integrity of effervescent tablets by controlling humidity levels inside the packaging.

Cost-Effective Moisture Protection: Plastic offers an adequate level of moisture protection at a lower cost than aluminum, making it a balanced option for products that need moderate humidity control without the premium cost of aluminum.

6. Ease of Use

Consumer-Friendly: Plastic packaging tends to be more user-friendly in terms of opening and closing. Many plastic containers feature easy-to-use snap-on or twist-off caps that provide consumers with convenient access to the tablets.

Reusability: Plastic containers are often easier to reuse for various purposes, such as storage, which adds a practical benefit for consumers post-use.

desiccant cap

Conclusion

While aluminum packaging has its strengths, such as superior moisture resistance and a premium feel, plastic packaging holds significant advantages in terms of cost, weight, flexibility, and ease of use. It is more affordable to produce, lightweight for transportation, and durable enough to withstand everyday handling. Additionally, its customizability provides opportunities for creative branding and design, making it a versatile and practical choice for many effervescent products.