|
?:definition
|
-
Laboratory incubators designed to maintain a controlled environment with molecular oxygen at a level similar to or greater than the atmosphere at a pre-determined constant temperature, usually in the range of 30 to 42 degrees Celsius (86 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit). These incubators typically consist of a chamber with electrical heating elements at the bottom (some units include also heating elements at the walls); the heated air circulates through the chamber by convection or by blower fans. Some incubators provide the appropriate temperature by including a jacket between the outer wall and the chamber wall to circulate heated water. The incubators usually include a thermostat, a temperature display, and alarms; they may also include humidity controls, recorders, and other accessories. The incubators are used for growing microorganisms and cells that require oxygen for growth (e.g., bacteriology, virology cultures); they are also used in other applications such as genetics, cancer tests, and in vitro fertilization procedures. Aerobic laboratory incubators are available as tabletop and self-supported (i.e., floor) units; dedicated incubators providing controlled carbon dioxide to the chamber are also available.
|
![[This page as RDF]](https://research.tib.eu/covid-19/static/rdf-icon.gif){kind=icon}