SSI : What consumables plastic for molecular biology and analysis?

Under the SSI brand (Scientific Specialties Inc., SSIbio), the US manufacturer designs and produces in the United States plastic labware for molecular biology and analytical testing: PCR/qPCR tubes and plates, microtubes, tube strips and caps, sealing films, racks and storage solutions. Renowned for consistent materials and finish quality, the brand delivers DNase/RNase-free products with no detectable DNA, engineered for the reproducibility of results. It serves R&D and quality control laboratories, genomics platforms, environmental testing, the agri-food sector, and the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries seeking genuine “Made in USA” quality and exemplary batch traceability.

Your specialist in laboratory plasticware — from California to Europe’s lab benches

Born in California under the name Scientific Specialties Inc., the SSI brand has, for more than three decades, established itself as a trusted partner to molecular biology laboratories. Its growth is built on deep know-how: the design and injection moulding of virgin polymers under controlled cleanliness (cleanroom) conditions, using proprietary moulds and tight control of critical parameters (wall thickness, flatness, optical clarity). Over the years, SSI has expanded its range from PCR tubes to 96/384-well plates, 8- and 12-strip formats, high-performance caps and high-clarity microtubes, while retaining Made in USA manufacturing and lot traceability that meet the expectations of regulated sectors. Distributed through specialist partners such as Dutscher, the brand combines lab-friendly ergonomics, agile manufacturing and a quality ethos that has earned it a global reputation.

Expertise and areas of specialisation

SSI’s expertise centres on critical consumables across the PCR/qPCR workflow and sample preparation.
• PCR design: tubes and plates with thin walls for uniform heat transfer, edges and skirts optimised for flatness, optically clear bottom and high-clarity materials for qPCR detection. Caps provide a secure seal, limiting evaporation and cross-contamination, including during long cycling or at high temperatures.
• Microtubes and preparation: 0.5/1.5/2.0 ml microtubes in virgin polypropylene, smooth surfaces, labelling areas, legible graduations and tolerance of high g-forces during centrifugation. Sterile/non-sterile options to suit R&D, QC and environmental monitoring.
• Quality and cleanliness: manufactured in cleanroom conditions, lots tested DNase/RNase-free and with no detectable DNA, free from PCR inhibitors. This control reduces analytical background noise and safeguards reproducibility between runs.
• Compatibilities: universal formats 0.2 ml, 96/384-well, 8/12 strips, compatible with leading thermocyclers and qPCR readers, as well as many automation systems.

SSI products distributed by Dutscher

Frequently asked questions about the SSI brand

Are SSI products made in the USA?
Yes, the brand designs and manufactures its consumables Made in USA, with batch traceability to ensure consistent quality.

Are SSI tubes and plates certified DNase/RNase-free?
Batches are tested and certified DNase/RNase-free and free of detectable DNA, minimising contamination risk in PCR/qPCR.

Compatibility with my thermal cycler or qPCR system?
0.2 mL formats, 8/12 strips and 96/384-well plates are engineered for broad compatibility with leading instruments.

Are there sterile options or ready-to-use pack formats?
Yes, depending on the reference: sterile and non-sterile versions, convenient packaging with racks and resealable pouches.

Does SSI have an environmental approach?
The consumables are made from polypropylene; recyclability depends on local streams. Dutscher recommends appropriate waste management practices.