Overview
- Lecture Bottles
- Small
- No threaded cap
- Rupture Issues
- Hydrogen bromide
- Hydrogen fluoride
Lecture cylinders, often called lecture ‘bottles,’ are common in labs and are the size most likely to contain toxic gases. They do not have a threaded cap but must be properly restrained such by using a rack as shown in the slide. Since they are purchased out-right and often used in small quantities, they can become very old. Cylinders of hydrogen bromide and hydrogen fluoride are known to build pressure over time (years) to the point they will spontaneously rupture and do so extremely violently. If you find cylinders of either of these two chemicals, record the date of purchase and notify a Senior Specialist for their follow up.