Probe Sonicator is laboratory equipment used for sonication or ultrasonic homogenization of samples. It is a device that generates high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted through a probe and cause mechanical vibrations in the sample. This leads to the formation and collapse of small gas bubbles, generating intense shear forces that result in the disruption of cells, extraction of compounds, and emulsification of liquids.
Probe sonicators are commonly used in a variety of applications, including sample preparation, cell lysis, nanoparticle synthesis, and emulsification. They are particularly useful for processing small volumes of samples, ranging from milliliters to microliters.
Probe sonicators consist of a generator that produces high-frequency electrical signals, which are converted into mechanical vibrations by a piezoelectric crystal. These vibrations are transmitted through a probe or horn that is immersed in the sample. The probe can be made of different materials, such as titanium or stainless steel, and can have different tip shapes and sizes depending on the application.
Some of the key features of probe sonicators include adjustable power settings, pulse and continuous modes of operation, temperature control, and timer functions. They may also come with additional accessories such as probes with different tip sizes and shapes, soundproof enclosures, and temperature-controlled sample chambers.
Probe sonicators are widely used in various fields of research and industry, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, food science, and materials science. They offer a fast and efficient way to process samples while minimizing damage to sensitive biomolecules and preserving the integrity of the sample.