Schlenk lines, also known as vacuum gas manifolds, are essential laboratory apparatus for the safe manipulation of air-sensitive compounds and advanced chemical reactions. Initially developed by Wilhelm Schlenk, these systems consist of a dual manifold: one line connects to a source of purified inert gas, and the other to a high-vacuum pump.

The inert gas line is typically vented through an oil bubbler. At the same time, a cold trap, using liquid nitrogen or a mixture of dry ice/acetone, prevents solvent vapors and reaction gases from contaminating the vacuum pump. Special stopcocks or Teflon taps allow users to switch between vacuum and inert gas without moving samples, providing precise control for sensitive experiments.

Schlenk lines are highly versatile, allowing simultaneous reactions or operations across multiple ports and lines. High vacuum capabilities also make them ideal for complete solvent removal.

At Asynt, we offer standardised configurations as well as bespoke Schlenk lines, custom-manufactured by our expert scientific glassblowers to suit your exact chemistry requirements. Consult our chemists today to design a custom vacuum gas manifold tailored for your laboratory workflow.