Gel tubes, often called Serum Separator Tubes (SST) or Plasma Preparation Tubes (PPT),
are specialized vacuum containers used in blood collection to efficiently separate serum/plasma from blood cells.
They contain an inert, thixotropic polymer gel at the bottom that forms a stable barrier between blood cells and
serum during centrifugation.
Key Features and Characteristics
* Separation Barrier: During centrifugation, the density-dependent gel moves to the
interface, preventing further metabolic exchange between the cells and the serum or plasma.
* Additives: Usually contain a clot activator (silica particles) for faster coagulation or anticoagulants like Heparin.
* Color-Coded Caps: Frequently yellow, gold, or red/black mottled (tiger top), indicating the presence of separator gel.
* Material: Made of transparent PET plastic or glass, often vacuum-sealed for precise blood draw volume.
* Usage: Commonly 4 ml, 8 ml, or 10 ml capacities, suitable for clinical chemistry, serology, and immunology,
including sensitive tests requiring high-quality serum.
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