What is a glove compartment?
A glovebox—also known as a glove box—creates a controlled inert gas atmosphere in which materials sensitive to air and moisture can be handled safely. We explain its design, function, and applications.
A glovebox is a sealed chamber in which a defined inert gas atmosphere—usually argon or nitrogen—is maintained. Built-in gloves allow you to reach into the box from the outside without disrupting the atmosphere. This keeps oxygen (O₂) and moisture (H₂O) at very low levels, often below 1 ppm.
Structure of a Glovebox
- Chamber: the sealed enclosure, usually made of stainless steel, with a viewing window.
- Gloves (ports): flexible gloves in round openings for working inside the box.
- Airlock (antechamber): a cylinder with two doors through which material is introduced and removed without losing the atmosphere—often consisting of a large main airlock and a mini-airlock.
- Gas purification: a cycle consisting of a molecular sieve and a copper catalyst that continuously removes O₂ and H₂O.
- Controls & Sensors: Pressure regulation as well as O₂ and H₂O sensors for monitoring.
How does the inert gas atmosphere work?
The protective gas is continuously circulated through the gas purification system. The molecular sieve traps moisture, while the copper catalyst traps oxygen. For details on how this works and when filters need to be regenerated or refilled, see the article “Glovebox Gas Purification.” A leak-tight box (see Leak Test & Leak Rate) and calibrated sensors are also essential for reliable measurements.
Where are gloveboxes used?
Anywhere materials must not come into contact with air or moisture: in battery research, catalysis, and organometallic chemistry; in the processing of OLED materials; in pharmaceutical and semiconductor research; as well as at universities and in industry.
Glovebox Services
We provide comprehensive support for gloveboxes from all manufacturers throughout their entire lifecycle—from sales and maintenance to refurbishment and accessories, as well as purchase and laboratory decommissioning.
Glovebox Basics: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a "glovebox" and a "glove box"?
There is no difference in meaning—“Handschuhbox” is the German term for the same device. Both refer to a sealed system with an inert gas atmosphere in which one works using built-in gloves.
What type of inert gas is used in a glovebox?
Usually argon or nitrogen. The appropriate gas depends on the application—some materials react with nitrogen, in which case argon is required.
How low are the O₂ and H₂O levels in a glovebox?
High-quality systems achieve levels below 1 ppm (parts per million) for oxygen and humidity—provided the enclosure is airtight, the gas purification system is functioning properly, and the sensors are calibrated.
Questions about finding the right glove box?
Whether it's selection, operation, or service—we provide manufacturer-neutral advice based on over 20 years of experience.
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