Spatula, Micro

Quick Answer: A micro spatula is a slender laboratory spatula with small, narrow working ends, made for lifting and moving very small amounts of powder or crystals. It reaches into vials and narrow tubes that a standard spatula cannot enter.

Working at Milligram Scale

Much modern practical chemistry is done on a small scale. Microscale experiments use a few drops of solution and a few milligrams of solid, which reduces waste, cost and exposure to chemicals. A standard spatula overloads that kind of work: it carries far more solid than is needed, and returning the excess is not allowed. The slim tool lifts only a small amount, so the user can build up to the required quantity.

The narrow ends also fit where larger tools do not: small sample vials, the neck of a narrow reagent bottle and the mouth of a test tube. End shapes vary from one model to another (a narrow flat blade, a small spoon, or one of each), so check the shape that suits the work. The Chattaway pattern adds an angled end for scraping the bottom of deeper containers.

Applications

• Microscale chemistry practicals using small amounts of solid
• Taking small samples from vials for chromatography or spectroscopy
• Adding a few crystals of indicator or catalyst to a reaction
• Weighing small masses of solid on a sensitive balance

Specifications

Care & Handling

• Keep these slim spatulas in a tray or case; thin ends bend easily if they are loose in a drawer.
• Clean between samples, as even a trace of residue is significant at this scale.
• Do not use the tip to prise open containers.
• Dry completely before storing to prevent spotting.

Why Choose LabEquip

Laboratories running microscale chemistry, analytical sample preparation and research on small quantities buy these small spatulas alongside standard ones. LabEquip lists them in the General Lab Products range; send the end shape you need through the contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a micro spatula used for?

Handling small quantities of solid, usually a few milligrams, and reaching into vials, narrow bottles and test tubes. It is common in microscale chemistry and analytical sample preparation.

How is a micro spatula different from a Chattaway spatula?

Both are slender. A Chattaway is a specific pattern with one flat end and one angled end. Other small spatulas may have a small blade, a small spoon or one of each.

Why not just use a standard spatula and take less?

A standard spatula tends to carry more than you want, and excess solid should not go back into the bottle. A narrow end lets you take small amounts directly.

Can a micro spatula be used to transfer liquids?

No. For small liquid volumes use a dropper, a Pasteur pipette or a micropipette. A spatula is designed for solids and pastes.

How should it be cleaned between samples?

Wipe off solid, rinse with water or a solvent that dissolves the residue, then dry. For trace analysis, rinse with high-purity water or solvent and let it air dry on a clean surface.

Will static make small amounts of powder jump off the spatula?

In dry rooms it can. Work close to the receiving vessel, keep the spatula clean and consider an antistatic weighing boat or ioniser near the balance.

Last Updated: September 2026