How 2D Coded Tubes Ensure Sample Security and Chain of Custody
2D coded tubes are engineered to provide robust sample security and a lifelong, auditable chain of custody through a combination of advanced identification technologies, secure physical design, and rigorous quality control. In this article, we explore why your lab should consider when purchasing 2D coded tubes.
Permanent, Redundant Identification
- Tri-coding system: Each tube features a permanently laser-etched 2D code on the base, a 1D linear barcode, and a human-readable number on the side. This ensures a permanent and unbreakable link between the physical sample and its digital record, supporting traceability even if one identification method is compromised.
- Readability in harsh conditions: The high-contrast 2D codes are readable without removing tubes from racks, even when exposed to frost or condensation, which is essential for cryogenic storage and high-throughput workflows.
Secure Physical Design
- Leak-tested and contamination-free: Each tube undergoes 100% quality control, including leak testing to ensure sample security and prevent cross-contamination.
- Externally threaded caps: These designs prevent overtightening and provide a more secure seal, reducing the risk of sample loss or contamination compared to traditional O-ring or internally threaded caps.
- Manufacturing standards: Tubes are made from USP Class VI virgin polypropylene in ISO Class 8 cleanrooms, ensuring they are free from detectable extractables, leachables, endotoxins, DNA/RNA, and heavy metals.
Chain of Custody and Audit Traceability
- Unique, lifelong codes: Every tube’s code is unique and permanent, providing a secure, auditable chain of custody for biobanks, compound libraries, and clinical or research samples—even over decades of storage.
- Compatibility with automation: The tri-coded design is compatible with automated barcode reading, capping, and sample management systems, enabling seamless tracking, data sharing, and audit trails across multiple users, labs, and locations.
- Audit-ready traceability: The combination of physical and digital records, plus compatibility with high-density storage and automated workflows, ensures that every sample movement is logged and traceable, supporting compliance with regulatory and quality standards.
Summary Table
| Feature | Security/Chain of Custody Benefit |
| Permanently etched tri-codes | Unbreakable link between sample and data |
| Leak-tested, contamination-free | Prevents loss or compromise of sample |
| External thread design | Secure seal, prevents overtightening |
| Automation compatibility | Enables full audit trails and efficient tracking |
| High-contrast, frost-resistant | Maintains identification in harsh conditions |
| Unique, lifelong codes | Supports long-term, auditable custody |
In summary:
2D coded tubes ensure sample security and chain of custody through permanent, redundant identification, secure and contamination-free design, and seamless integration with automated and audit-ready sample management systems. This makes them a gold standard for biobanks, clinical labs, and any environment where sample integrity and traceability are paramount.
At 2D Tubes by AutoGen, we’ve taken the time to consider all these factors to provide a tube and rack design perfect for DNA/RNA extraction automation. Through our partnership with LVL Technologies, a leading German manufacturer of high-quality 2D barcoded tubes, racks, and automation-ready sample storage solutions, we now offer a broad array of end-to-end sample workflow solutions – from extraction to secure, scalable storage. We believe you won’t find a better sample tube or accessories on the market.
If you’re interested in getting these tubes into your workflows, get in touch. Our team is here to help your lab become more efficient.