This post addresses a frequently asked question: Can Beonchip devices be reused? Here, we explain why microfluidic devices are designed for single use, while accessories such as connectors and tubing can be safely reused when properly sterilized.
Why Are Beonchip Devices Single-Use?
You may wonder whether Beonchip devices can be reused to reduce the cost per experiment. However, while this may seem efficient, we design our microfluidic chips for single use only only and should be discarded after completing the experiment and analysis.
Similar to standard cell culture well plates, researchers use Beonchip devices as a platform for in vitro cell culture models. These experiments typically involve:
- Surface coatings
- Living cells
- Cell culture media
Importantly, all of these components leave residual traces within the microfluidic channels, even after applying cell detachment and cleaning protocols.
As a result, a reused device no longer offers the same pristine and controlled conditions as a new chip. Therefore, this becomes critical because:
- Experimental reproducibility depends on consistent conditions
- Residual contamination can alter cell behaviour and results
- Reused devices cannot be considered equivalent replicates
Impact on Experimental Reliability
In biological research, reproducibility is essential. Each replicate must follow identical conditions to ensure valid and comparable results.
However, a previously used device can introduce:
- Biological residues
- Chemical contaminants
- Variation in surface properties
Consequently, these factors can compromise data quality and lead to unreliable conclusions.
Limitations of Cleaning and Sterilization
Although the materials used in Beonchip devices resist to:
- 70% ethanol
- High temperatures (e.g., autoclaving)
The device assembly itself and surface chemistry may not withstand these processes.
For example, potential issues include:
- Structural deformation
- Loss of bonding integrity
- Leakage during perfusion experiments
- Inefficient cell attachment
Therefore, these risks make reuse impractical and unreliable.
Best Practices for Using Beonchip Devices
To ensure optimal performance and reliable experimental results, we recommend following these best practises:
- Use a new chip for each experiment to maintain consistent and reproducible conditions
- Keep devices in their sterile packaging until immediately before use
- Avoid exposure of channels to non-sterile environments prior to cell seeding
- Plan experiments in advance to maximize the number of conditions tested per batch
- Optimize protocols (e.g., coating, seeding density) beforehand to reduce trial-and-error on chips
Following these guidelines will help you obtain high-quality, reproducible data while making efficient use of your resources.
Final Recommendation
For optimal performance and data reliability, Beonchip devices should be used only once in cell culture experiments.
Reusable accessories: What Can be Sterilized and Reused?
While the chips themselves are single-use, most accessories are reusable and designed for repeated use under proper sterilization conditions.
Reusable Components
The following accessories can be reused:
In these cases, we recommend autoclaving before first use and between experiments to maintain sterility. After each use, the accessories can also be cleaned with water and soap before autoclaving.
Example autoclave program:
- 121ºC for 15-20 minutes.
Non-Autoclavable Accessories
In contrast, you should not autoclave the following components:
Need Help or Have Questions?
If you have any doubts about the use of our microfluidic devices or accessories, our team is here to help.
You can contact us for technical support, protocol guidance, or product-related questions:
- Email: info@beonchip.com
- Website: beonchip.com
- Or reach out through our contact form
We are happy to assist you in optimizing your experiments and getting the most out of your Beonchip devices.