Forceps, Plastic

Quick Answer: Plastic forceps are spring-action forceps moulded from plastic, used where metal tools would scratch, corrode, react or conduct electricity. In school and college labs they handle standard masses, indicator papers, seeds and small specimens.

Jobs for Non-Metal Forceps

Metal forceps are the default for dissection, but a plastic pair does a different set of jobs better. Standard masses for a balance are handled with forceps so that skin oils and moisture do not change their mass, and plastic tips do not scratch them. Indicator and pH papers can be dipped and moved without the tips reacting with acids. Plastic is also non-magnetic and non-conductive, which makes these forceps handy in magnetism experiments and near electrical apparatus.

The plastic used is not stated in this listing. Forceps are moulded from several plastics, including polypropylene, polystyrene and ABS, which differ widely in heat and chemical resistance, so check the rating before autoclaving or using the forceps with solvents. A separately listed pair, Plastic Tweezers, PP, names polypropylene in its title; the listings do not say how the two items differ.

Plastic tips cannot be flamed and are coarser than fine steel points, so they are not a substitute for metal forceps in aseptic transfers or fine dissection.

Applications

• Handling standard masses and small weights at physics and chemistry balances
• Dipping and moving indicator and pH papers
• Picking up small items near magnets, where steel forceps would be attracted
• Sorting seeds, soil animals and small specimens in junior science

Specifications

Care & Handling

• Rinse the forceps after contact with chemicals and dry them before storage.
• Keep them away from flames, hot plates and hot glassware.
• Replace any pair whose tips no longer meet or whose hinge has cracked.

Why Choose LabEquip

Plastic forceps are ordered in class quantities by schools for junior science, balance work and general handling. LabEquip lists them with metal forceps in its Biology Lab Products range.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why handle balance weights with forceps?

Fingers leave moisture and oils that add tiny amounts of mass and can corrode the weights over time. Forceps keep the masses clean and accurate.

Can these forceps be autoclaved?

It depends on the plastic. Polypropylene is generally autoclavable, but polystyrene and some other plastics deform, so check the rating of this item first.

Are non-metal forceps safe near electrical equipment?

Plastic does not conduct electricity, so they reduce the risk of short circuits when small items are moved near live apparatus. They are not insulated tools for live electrical work.

Can I use plastic forceps for dissection?

They can hold soft plant material, but their tips are too coarse and flexible for fine dissection. Use steel dissecting forceps for animal tissue and fine work.

Do acids damage plastic forceps?

Most common lab plastics resist dilute acids and alkalis at room temperature, but organic solvents can soften some of them. Rinse the forceps after use.

How are these different from the PP plastic tweezers?

The tweezers listing names polypropylene in its title. This listing does not state the plastic, so compare the material and tip form given for each before choosing.

Last Updated: September 2026