What Is Vertical Laminar Airflow Hood and Why Do You Need One?

Laminar airflow hoods are devices that safety professionals can use to protect themselves during the act of hazardous chemical handling. Also, the significant use of laminar airflow hoods protects the sample from any airborne contamination. In a vertical laminar airflow, hood air is drawn through the top and then forced down over the slide, making it possible to react without exposing the chemicals to the air. The primary purpose of the laminar airflow hood is to avoid contamination when handling biological samples, chemicals, and microorganisms. Airflow hoods can be used in various industries and scientific settings.

Why Do You Need One?

1.      Chemical reactions

 In a Vertical Laminar Airflow Hood, it is possible to react without exposing them to air. This reduces the chances of contamination, which is not possible with standard chemical reaction flasks or glassware that does not protect against contaminants added by air. It is always advisable if you are handling a dangerous chemical or working with a piece of equipment that has the potential of creating hazardous conditions. Such as a thermal lance with proper protective equipment and clothing because bad accidents can happen in as fast as an instance.

2.      Contamination

When working with a dangerous chemical, it is better to protect yourself, and your environment against airborne contaminates. It is possible to work in a contamination-free environment with laminar airflow hoods. They provide a safe and hazard-free space for your lab work, such as analyzing any sample or reactions that can be easily contaminated. If you are working on or with such chemicals for an extended period, you will use an isolation shield. This is also to prevent breathing in any contaminants present on the surface, such as acids, vapors, solvents, etc.

3.      Fast Analysis

In a vertical laminar airflow hood, it is possible to carry out a faster analysis when compared to that of the standard setup. This is because there is no room for air to enter so that you can carry out faster reactions without the risk of contamination. When you are not using an isolation shield, contamination can quickly enter the hood, staying for a more extended period. This leads to contamination on your samples which will be more detrimental to them than your environment. Therefore, laminar airflow hoods tend toward rapid processes and help achieve faster analysis than the standard setup.

There are many benefits to using a laminar airflow hood for laboratory; the most important is that it protects your samples from airborne contamination. This also serves as a barrier between you and any dangerous chemicals you work with, as well as other harmful substances. When making such investment in environmental protection, this can be applied across many laboratories during their daily works and study experiments.

Original Link: https://theomnibuzz.com/what-is-vertical-laminar-airflow-hood-and-why-do-you-need-one/