The glovebox provides an inert atmosphere to handle and prepare samples that are sensitive to oxygen or to work with reactive chemicals safely. Currently it is set up only for the former.

Important: If you are going to use a chemical inside the glovebox, check its compatibility with the gloves (neoprene).

Sign in logbook

• Enter all information in logbook including nitrogen and O2 levels. (If O2 level is higher than 1 ppm and/or nitrogen level is lower than 500 PSI, notify Piper.

Loading Samples into Small Antechamber and Evacuation

• Back fill the small antechamber. (Make sure the small antechamber is “under vacuum”).
• Open the outer door of the small antechamber and load your materials into it. (No materials that absorb air or moisture).
• Evacuate the antechamber slowly until -30 Hg, then pump for 5 minutes at -30 Hg and refill. Repeat evacuation/refill 3 times.

Unloading Samples from Small Antechamber to Glovebox

• Insert hands & arms into the black rubber gloves while using the left side of the foot pedal to decrease pressure within the box. Make sure that both the refill valve and evacuation valve are closed.
• With hands inside gloves, grasp the inner door handle and open the door.
• Move items in or out of the small antechamber and close the inner door.
• If you are working in the glove box for an extended period of time (longer than 20 minutes), put the antechamber under vacuum while working in the box.

Finishing Up

• Remove all utensils, samples, debris and waste from the glovebox.
• Wipe down each of the black rubber gloves with isopropyl alcohol and kimwipes.
• Make sure the evacuation valve is open.
• Record your information in the logbook: name, date, time, O2 level, nitrogen level, action taken, comments.