Rubber stoppers are small, cylindrical components made from synthetic rubber materials such as bromobutyl or synthetic isoprene. They are designed to fit snugly into the open end of blood collection tubes, forming a tight seal that prevents leakage and contamination of blood samples. Rubber stoppers come in various sizes and colors to accommodate different tube diameters and additive requirements.

Rubber stoppers for blood collection tubes serve several essential functions:

Sealing: The primary function of rubber stoppers is to provide a secure seal at the top of blood collection tubes, preventing blood samples from leaking or spilling during transport and storage. The tight seal created by the stopper ensures the integrity of the sample and minimizes the risk of contamination.

Preservation of Sample Integrity: Rubber stoppers help preserve the integrity of blood samples by maintaining a closed and airtight environment within the collection tube. This prevents exposure to external contaminants, air, and moisture, which could alter the composition of the sample and affect test results.

Additive Distribution: Blood collection tubes often contain additives such as anticoagulants or clot activators to facilitate sample processing and analysis. Rubber stoppers play a role in distributing these additives evenly throughout the sample by sealing the tube and allowing for gentle inversion or mixing of the contents.

Compatibility with Automation: Rubber stoppers are designed to be compatible with automated blood collection systems commonly used in healthcare settings. They allow for smooth and efficient processing of blood samples through automated equipment, ensuring accuracy and consistency in diagnostic testing.