Sarah Brown
A glove box is a sealed container that allows users to manipulate objects in a sterile and draft-free micro-environment. It is used for mushroom inoculations, agar work, liquid culture work, or any other laboratory procedure that is sensitive to
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To create a sterile and draft-free micro-environment for mushroom inoculations, agar work, liquid culture work, or any other laboratory procedure that is sensitive to airborne contaminants. |
| Materials | Cardboard box, plastic bin, kitchen gloves, aluminium dryer vents, silicone, hot plate, oven mitt, file, sealant, Saran wrap, etc. |
| Steps | Cut off the top of the box and make armholes. Cover the top with a transparent material. Attach gloves to the rims of the holes with glue and sealant. |
| Advantages | Reduced airflow, decreased chances of contamination, ability to maintain a sterile environment. |
| Disadvantages | Uncomfortable and clumsy to work in, difficulty manipulating objects, increased air currents due to glove movement, no flame can be used inside. |
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What You'll Learn
The pros and cons of a glove box for mushroom cultivation
A glove box is an airtight box with two holes on the sides for gloves to be attached. The purpose of a glove box is to create a sterile environment for mushroom cultivation, protecting the mushrooms from contaminants and the user from fumes or infectious agents.
Pros of a glove box for mushroom cultivation:
- A glove box can be a cheap and easy way to create a sterile environment for mushroom cultivation, especially when compared to a laminar flow hood (LFH).
- It can drastically increase the chances of growing healthy mycelium by reducing the amount of air exchange and potential contaminants.
- It can be a good option for those who do not have a clean working environment, as it minimises the risk of contamination from a dirty or drafty room.
- A basic glove box requires very few materials and steps to make, and professionally-made options are also available.
Cons of a glove box for mushroom cultivation:
- Working with gloves can be uncomfortable and clumsy, leading to mistakes.
- The movement of gloves within the box can cause air currents, which may spread contaminants if they are present.
- A flame cannot be used inside a glove box, limiting certain sterilisation techniques.
- Sterility may be difficult to maintain, especially with homemade glove boxes, and the air must be very sterile to be effective.
- The exhaust port must be open to prevent contaminants from becoming trapped inside, but this may also allow contaminants to enter if there is insufficient pressure or other unsecured intakes.
- It can be restrictive and time-consuming to work inside a glove box, and some users may find it unnecessary if they already have a clean working environment.
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How to build a still-air box
A still-air box is an enclosure that minimises air movement, thus reducing the chance of contaminants entering your project. It is not sealed, but the minimal air movement means the chance of a puff of air depositing contaminants is extremely low.
To build a still-air box, you will need a clear tub, a table, and a can of disinfectant spray. You should also have gloves and a disinfectant wipe to hand.
First, wipe down the table with the disinfectant wipe, leaving it wet. Place your jars and equipment on the table, ensuring they are clean. Pull the tub upside down over the equipment, and spray disinfectant up into the space between the table and the tub. Wait 10 minutes.
Now, pull the tub off the table edge to create enough room for your arms and gloved hands to enter. You can also cut holes in the tub for your arms, but this may increase the chance of contaminants entering.
A still-air box is a good alternative to a glove box, which can be cumbersome and uncomfortable to work with. A still-air box is also easier to make, as a glove box requires an airtight seal and gloves attached to the box.
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How to attach gloves to your box
A glove box is an airtight box with two holes on the sides where gloves are attached, allowing users to place their hands inside the gloves and work without any air exchange between the inside of the box and the outside environment. This setup is commonly used for mushroom growing, medical research, and applications where maintaining a sterile environment or containing fumes or infectious agents is crucial.
Prepare the Box
Start by choosing an appropriate container for your glove box. A plastic bin or a cardboard box can be used. If using a plastic bin, select a size that is comfortable for your intended tasks, such as a 66-quart Sterlite brand bin. If using a cardboard box, cut off the top to create an open space for armholes.
Create the Armholes
Mark the positions for the armholes on the sides of the box. Place the armholes an inch or two off the side of the bin, keeping them vertically centered. Use a sharp object, such as a tuna can with a heated rim, to trace two circles on the marked positions. Cut out the traced circles to create the armholes. Ensure that the edges of the holes are smooth and free of any sharp or jagged areas.
Attach the Gloves
Obtain a pair of gloves that fit snugly around your wrists. Latex or vinyl gloves can be used. Insert the gloves into the armholes, leaving just an inch or so of the glove cuff sticking out. Secure the glove cuffs to the outside of the box with a strong adhesive, such as glue or silicone.
Seal the Gloves
Once the glue has dried, apply a sealant around the armholes, both inside and outside the box. This step ensures that the seal between the gloves and the box is airtight, preventing any air exchange during use.
By following these steps, you can effectively attach gloves to your box, creating a functional glove box for your mushroom cultivation or other applications requiring a sterile environment.
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How to ensure your box is airtight
A glove box is a great option for a project that cannot have any air exchange, such as growing mushrooms. It is a box with an airtight lid and two holes on the side where gloves are attached, allowing you to work inside the box without any air exchange between the inside and outside.
To ensure your box is airtight, you can follow these steps:
- Choose the right materials: Wood is not ideal for creating an airtight box as it has pores and moves with temperature and humidity changes. Instead, consider using glass or plastic for the main container.
- Seal the joints: If you are using a wooden box, apply a silicone sealant or epoxy coating along every joint where the wood meets. This will fill in the pores and create a tighter seal.
- Use an internal lid: Place an internal lid over the mouth of the box. You can buy these lids from cookery suppliers or craft stores, or make your own using cling film and a rubber band. Stretch the film tightly over the opening and secure it with the rubber band.
- Seal the armholes: If your glove box has armholes, seal them with a sealant or silicone glue, both inside and outside the box, to ensure an airtight fit between the gloves and the box.
- Check for drafts: Before using the glove box, check for any drafts or air currents in your work environment. The glove box will only be effective if the surrounding air is relatively still.
- Work slowly: When working inside the glove box, keep your movements slow and steady to minimise air movement within the box. This will reduce the risk of contaminants being carried by air currents.
By following these steps and choosing the right materials, you can ensure your glove box is airtight, creating the necessary sterile environment for growing mushrooms or conducting scientific experiments.
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Alternative methods to a glove box
A glove box is a sealed container with built-in gloves, designed to provide a sterile environment for mushroom cultivation. However, there are several alternative methods and setups to a glove box that can be used to achieve a sterile environment. Here are some alternative methods and variations:
Still-Air Box
A Still-Air Box (SAB) is a simple device that creates a nearly sterile environment for mushroom cultivation. Unlike a glove box, an SAB does not have built-in gloves but instead has arm ports or holes for users to access the contents. The key principle behind the SAB is to minimise air movement, thereby reducing the risk of airborne contaminants coming into contact with the mushroom cultures. While it does not guarantee a completely sterile environment, the stillness of the air inside the box significantly reduces the chances of contamination. This method is commonly used by both seasoned and novice mycologists due to its effectiveness, affordability, and ease of use.
Laminar Flow Hood
A laminar flow hood is an advanced system that creates a sterile environment by controlling the movement of air. It uses a constant flow of filtered air to push away contaminants and prevent them from entering the workspace. The direction of air movement can be adjusted to suit the specific needs of the project. For example, in projects involving toxic fumes, the airflow can be directed away from the user to protect their health. However, laminar flow hoods are generally more expensive and complex than other methods, making them less accessible for amateur mycologists or small-scale cultivators.
Open-Air Cultivation
Open-air cultivation is the most basic method of mushroom cultivation, where mushrooms are grown in a natural or semi-controlled environment. This method is the least expensive, but it carries a high risk of contamination due to uncontrolled exposure to airborne pathogens. It is important to note that open-air cultivation requires a relatively clean environment, free from drafts or significant air currents, to minimise the chances of contamination.
Glove Bag
A glove bag can be used as an alternative to a glove box for mushroom cultivation. This method involves using a large plastic bag with built-in gloves, similar to those used in gutting kits. The bag is not completely sealed, and users must take care to minimise air movement to prevent contamination. This method may be more convenient for some cultivators due to the flexibility and portability of the bag.
Cardboard Box with Arm Holes
Another simple alternative is to use a cardboard box with cut-out hand holes covered with plastic wrap. This setup allows for visibility and some level of control while working with the mushrooms. It is important to sterilise the box and the surrounding area before use to minimise the risk of contamination. This method may be more accessible and cost-effective for some cultivators.
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Frequently asked questions
A glove box is an air-tight box with two holes on the side where gloves are permanently attached, allowing users to place their hands inside the gloves and reach into the box without allowing any air exchange.
A glove box is essential for mushroom inoculations, agar work, liquid culture work, or any other laboratory procedure that is sensitive to airborne contaminants. It helps create a sterile and draft-free micro-environment.
You can use a cardboard box or a plastic bin as the base. Other materials include gloves, a sharp object to cut holes, a sealant, and an optional drill or hot knife.
First, cut two holes in the box for your arms. Then, attach the gloves to the holes using glue or clamps. Ensure the gloves are airtight by using a sealant. Finally, sterilize the box before use to prevent contamination.
