 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2011) |
 An ordinary glovebox, showing the two gloves for manipulation, with airlock on the right | |
| Other names | Isolator |
|---|---|
| Uses | Inert atmosphere work Hazardous materials work |
| Related items | Desiccator Schlenk line |
A glovebox (or glove box) is a sealed container that is designed to allow one to manipulate objects where a separate atmosphere is desired. Built into the sides of the glovebox are gloves arranged in such a way that the user can place their hands into the gloves and perform tasks inside the box without breaking containment. Part or all of the box is usually transparent to allow the user to see what is being manipulated. A smaller antechamber compartment is used to transport items into or out of the main chamber without compromising the internal environment. Antechambers are much smaller than the main chambers so they can be exposed to ambient conditions more often and achieve inert conditions quickly.[1]
Two types of gloveboxes exist. The first allows a person to work with hazardous substances, such as radioactive materials or infectious disease agents, and the second allows manipulation of substances that must be contained within a very high purity inert atmosphere, such as argon or nitrogen. It is also possible to use a glovebox for manipulation of items in a vacuum chamber.
- ^ "Antechamber of a Glove Box". Ossila.