Mortar & Pestle: Uses and its Benefits

Most of the historical tools have been rendered obsolete by modern technology. Some antiquated, irreplaceable equipment types are still in use.

These pieces of gear have special qualities that are quite useful in a variety of industries. The Mortar and Pestle is an example of a piece of equipment having a set of paired tools and a bowl-cup structure with a rod.

Mortar and pestle chemistry can be utilized effectively because of the extensive work surface. When it comes to how a mortar and pestle functions, each of its components has certain qualities that complement and enhance one another.

A mortar is a container used to grind or crush materials with a pestle. An instrument called a pestle is used to pound, mash, or ground ingredients in a mortar.

While the pestle is conical and enormous in the lower, the mortar has an octagonal face, a polished bowl shape, and a deep moulded base. The different types of Mortar and Pestle are classed according to the materials they are made of. 

TYPES OF MORTAR AND PESTLES 

Different sizes and forms are available for mortars and pestles. Based on their utility, each form of mortar and pestle is superior than the others.

Grey Agate- The sample's texture and purity are preserved by the Grey Agate mortar and pestle. When using manual handy methods, it is advisable to utilize ingredients with a hardness of less than 7. This renders it more appropriate for the pharmacy industry. 

Glass- The glass container is ideal for combining the colourful ingredients.

Wood- The wooden Mortar and Pestle are ideal for communal cooking and flavour elaboration over time.

Ceramics- Ceramic mortar and pestles are excellent for bruises and keep the flavours of the ingredients. It is possible to grind materials into extremely fine powders using rough ceramic mortar and pestle sets, but they are fragile and discolour readily. 

Porcelain Mortar and Pestle- These durable and reliable pharmacy instruments are used for particle reduction and powder blending. The glazed exterior, deep bowl, and clearly defined lip of mortars allow for controlled pouring. To prepare porcelain mortars for usage, some sand is occasionally ground into a rougher surface that aids in particle reduction.

 Most significant, this use of a mortar and pestle has only been made feasible by the peculiarities of its size, composition, and texture.

MORTAR AND PESTLE USES

To break up solid chemicals into smaller pieces or to grind substances into fine powder, use a mortar and pestle. This makes dissolving solids in liquids simpler especially when making solutions in the lab.

A deep shape mortar and pestle set is required whenever you need to break solids into smaller bits or powder up solid state substances.

The percentage of mortar and pestle utilization in drug preparations at the pharmacy is high. Even the purity can be preserved with this tool.

In chemistry laboratory; laboratory equipment like the automated grinder is less favoured if the grinding medium is corrosive or volatile. This is because an acidic medium can shorten the machine's lifespan. Consequently, a granite or marble mortar and pestle may be appropriate in this case. They are also simple to clean and less likely to develop issues.

 

Also in the food and edibles industry, a mortar and pestle tool is used. Mortar and pestle have been used in the creation of species since centuries past. These spices give your cuisine flavour. Above all, a mortar and pestle keeps the ingredients' ideal texture and mixing.

Also read: Hydrometer vs Alcoholmeter: All You Need To Know

Related aticles

lab coats
27
Sep

Lab coats safeguard the safety and hygiene in any laboratory setting, and as a lab manager, the choice between disposable and reusable coats can greatly impact both your operational budget and the safety of your staff.

Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can determine why reusable ones are better suited for your facility. Read on to explore the pros and cons of sustainable coats, and the cost-benefit analysis for the managers by assessing their safety, environmental impact, and cost.

Lab trays
25
Sep

Any laboratory cannot do without them as they can perform many things from organising to being catch-alls. Lab trays are made to eliminate clutter and abide by this work environment’s systematic rule.

May they be metal, plastic, or glass, these trays also come in many forms and sizes. They can also be moulded into specific shapes or moulds to fit the type of substance they are going to contain. These substances can be liquid, solid, or any material that may be dangerous to hold by hand or dangerous to the skin. 

Let us look into the roles and significance that these essential trays can provide within an experiment room setting.