Automotive

Car Care Essentials

Expert Car Care ensures that your vehicle operates correctly and safely. In many cases, the car will alert you to a problem through warning lights or a change in performance.

Follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. Deviation from this could void your warranty. Proactive maintenance is the best way to save on car repair costs.

A well-maintained tire is your first line of defense between you and the road. Check the tread depth of your tires with the simple penny test, and be sure to purchase new tires when the tread is too worn. Watch our tire expert as he shows you how to do this in the video below.

Tires should be inflated to the recommended pressure, as detailed on the chart inside your driver’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Proper tire inflation contributes to a safe, fuel-efficient ride and helps maintain correct handling characteristics. It’s important to check your tire pressure often, at least once a month, and before long trips or heavy loads. If your tires are overinflated, they can create excessive heat that causes the rubber to wear down and reduce its lifespan.

Many cars are equipped with sensors that can alert you to a low tire pressure, but a basic tire gauge is a convenient and inexpensive tool to have on hand. It’s important to check your tire tread depth at a few different points and between ribs of the tire to check for uneven wear. Uneven tire wear can indicate improper inflation, wheel misalignment or a number of other issues.

A well-maintained tire is your first and perhaps most important line of defense between you and the road. To ensure the safety of your family, friends, and your vehicle, check your tires regularly for adequate tread depth. To do this, use the penny test: stick a quarter in your tire tread, and if you can see Lincoln’s head with only part of his head covered by the coin, your tire is too worn and needs replacing.

Check Your Brakes

The brakes are an integral part of your car’s safety system. It is a good idea for most drivers to have their brakes checked and serviced at least once every six months. More aggressive drivers may want to have their brakes checked more frequently, perhaps with every oil change. There are several warning signs that your vehicle’s brakes are due for a checkup. The first is a brake light coming on, followed by the feeling that your car takes longer than usual to come to a stop. A vibrating sensation when you press down on the brake pedal may also indicate a problem with your vehicle’s brakes.

If you hear a high-pitched noise that comes from your vehicle when it stops, this is usually a sign that your brake pads have worn down to the metal backing plates and are now grinding against the rotors. The resulting damage can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your brakes.

In addition to the front brake pads, there are two other important parts of your vehicle’s braking system: the master cylinder and the power booster. The master cylinder converts the foot pressure you apply to the brake pedal into the needed hydraulic pressure to activate your brakes. The power booster amplifies the amount of pressure applied to the master cylinder so that your car’s brakes respond quickly.

Both the master cylinder and the power booster can wear out or become damaged over time. If you suspect that one or both of these components is faulty, the team at Brake Check can diagnose and repair any problems. Your brake lines carry the pressurized hydraulic fluid from your car’s master cylinder to your brakes. They can also wear out over time due to normal use or from age and weather. The Brake Check team can inspect your brake lines to make sure they are in good condition.

Check Your Battery

For decades, drivers didn’t have a lot of options beyond waiting for a dead battery to surprise them at the most inconvenient time. Today, a little routine testing can take the guesswork out of when your battery will fail.

Start by checking your battery’s voltage. A multimeter can be used to do this; just plug the red probe into the positive terminal and the black one into the negative. The display should read 12.2 to 12.6 volts. If this reading is lower, the battery needs charging or replacing.

Another easy test is to observe how your car functions when idling. If the headlights flicker, the power windows hesitate to roll down, or your radio station or Bluetooth settings disappear from your car’s screen, these can all be signs that the battery is weakening.

Corrosion on the battery’s terminals can also cause problems. This corrosion, which looks like white ashy deposits on the terminals, reduces the battery’s ability to transfer charge. It can often be cleaned by removing the cables, wiping down the terminals, and using a wire brush or baking soda. If the corrosion has been there for a while, however, the battery may need replacement.

A more accurate way to test a battery is with a dedicated battery tester, which allows you to see how well the battery performs under load. These battery testers can be purchased at many auto parts stores, and they can also be used at most shops that offer free curbside testing.

Check Your Tire Pressure

It’s one of the most important things you can do for your Honda Civic, Ridgeline, Accord or Pilot. Yet, many drivers aren’t doing it right, or at all. Checking your tire pressure is a simple task that can have a huge impact on your vehicle’s performance and safety, including its ability to drive properly and achieve maximum fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure changes constantly due to a number of reasons, such as ambient air temperature and driving (which heats the tires). If your tire’s pressure is too low, you can end up with a flat tire, requiring roadside assistance. On the other hand, if your tire’s pressure is too high, you’ll waste gas and wear out the tires more quickly.

Ideally, you should check your tire pressure every two to four weeks, or before long trips or when you’re carrying additional loads. Always remember to check the pressure on cold tires, as this will give you the most accurate reading.

Most cars come with a tire pressure monitoring system that will alert you to low pressure. If yours doesn’t, it’s very easy to get a tire pressure gauge at your local automotive store or gas station. Then, just remove the cap from the end of each tire’s valve stem, and press the gauge firmly on it. Listen for the hissing sound of escaping air, and then note the gauge’s reading and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor or buy one at a gas station and fill each tire up to the correct psi. Replace the valve cap and repeat the process with the other three tires on your vehicle, as well as the spare.

Check Your Oil

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It lubricates the engine and its moving parts, reduces friction and helps prevent overheating. It also flushes out metal flakes that can damage the engine over time. Without regular checks, your oil can degrade and clog your engine. Luckily, checking your oil is a simple task that can be done at home. In fact, it’s one of the most important things you can do for your car.

Start by locating a lint free rag (an old t-shirt usually works well) and locate your car’s oil dipstick. Then make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground so the dipstick can get an accurate reading. It’s also a good idea to check your coolant levels while you’re at it (depending on your specific vehicle, some manufacturers recommend checking these fluids when the engine is warm instead of cold).

When you take a look at your oil, you should notice that it should be dark brown or black and clear of any metal flakes or debris. If the oil looks sludgy, milky or murky, that’s an indicator that it needs to be changed. It’s also possible that your oil filter is starting to fail and releasing debris into the engine.

Performing these simple, routine maintenance tasks on your car can help extend its lifespan and maintain or even increase its value when it’s time to sell. To help you stay on track, we offer convenient and affordable service reminders and an online car care tracker that will let you know when your next service is due. Download our app and start managing your car care today! If you have any questions, give our Service Team a call or schedule an appointment online.

Home Improvement

Properties of Epoxy Coating

Epoxy Coating Near Me acts as a protective shield that goes right over rough flooring. It can withstand impacts, shocks, and heavy weight without chipping or breaking down.

Epoxy Coating

Adding graphene derivatives to an epoxy resin increases corrosion protection. In a study, rGO was silanized with APTES or GPTMS and added to an epoxy formulation that protected steel from corrosion.

Epoxy coatings are a great choice for floors that will be exposed to moisture, spills, or high foot traffic. Their anti-slip properties help prevent accidents, creating a safer work environment for employees and reducing downtime due to injuries. The textured surface of epoxy coatings improves traction and reduces the risk of slippage, particularly in wet conditions. Additionally, some epoxy floor coatings include aggregate to enhance traction.

Non-slip epoxy coatings are available in a variety of textures to suit specific application needs. For example, a coarser texture is better suited for a warehouse floor than a fine texture. It also provides a more durable surface that resists abrasion and wear. Alternatively, you can opt for a softer texture that is more comfortable to walk on.

The texture of a non-slip epoxy coating can be enhanced further by adding abrasive aggregate, such as crushed glass or aluminum oxide. These materials are added to the base coat before the topcoat is applied. You can also find grit additives that are designed to be mixed into an epoxy coating or broadcasted on the surface.

Aside from slip resistance, a non-slip epoxy coating can offer other protection against environmental contaminants. Coatings that are exposed to harsh chemicals, such as acids or dyes, can be damaged over time by the abrasive elements in these substances. Coatings with an anti-corrosive property can prevent the formation of flash rust on steel surfaces.

Many people assume that they can apply an epoxy coating and immediately start using the area. However, the reality is that a lack of surface preparation is responsible for up to 80% of all cases where an epoxy coating fails prematurely. To avoid this issue, it’s important to ensure the appropriate environmental conditions are met and that the right type of abrasive media is used for blasting the surface.

Water Resistant

Epoxy coatings have good water resistance properties, allowing them to form an airtight seal that prevents the infiltration of water. The water resistance of epoxy depends on the type of epoxy selected, as well as the preparation and curing processes. The substrate’s condition also impacts the coating’s water resistance. Ensure proper cleaning, degreasing, and roughening prior to coating to maximize adhesion and minimize potential entry points for moisture. Moreover, maintaining precise temperatures and humidity during curing will promote the best results.

Many people are interested in using epoxy to serve as a waterproof membrane on commercial, residential, or industrial projects. Epoxy waterproofing can be used on decks, concrete slabs, walkways, and other surfaces that are susceptible to high hydrostatic pressure, potential movement, or radon gas migration. However, it is important to remember that no epoxy offers absolute waterproofing and that dedicated waterproof membranes are still the best option for critical applications requiring high performance standards.

Various methods are available for enhancing epoxy coatings’ water resistance, including surface modification and nanofiller additions. One method involves grafting GO with a conductive polythiophene chain, which enhances corrosion resistance by promoting passivation film formation on steel surfaces. GO/PTh grafting was performed through in-situ polymerization, followed by a PTh-GO dispersion in acetone and subsequent mixing with an epoxy resin and curing agent. The resulting GO-PTH/epoxy coating was sprayed onto a sandblasted stainless steel plate, cured at room temperature and then at moderate temperatures, and subjected to a corrosive media test. The GO-PTH/epoxy samples presented the highest impedance values, indicating that GO significantly enhanced the epoxy’s corrosion protection potential due to its improved dispersion on epoxy and its ability to function as a physical barrier against water, oxygen, and other corrosive materials.

Durable

Epoxy is a strong and durable material, especially when properly applied. Proper maintenance practices are also essential to extend the life of epoxy coatings and maintain their high-performance properties. Regular cleaning, for example, can remove dirt and abrasive debris that can scratch the surface and reduce its durability.

Regularly sweeping and vacuuming can also help prevent contamination from chemicals or abrasive particles that could damage the epoxy resin or expose bare substrate. Proper storage and handling can also ensure that the epoxy does not become exposed to heat or moisture, which may affect its chemical resistance and dimensional stability.

In addition to their physical strength and longevity, epoxies are highly versatile and can be used for many applications. They are often used as adhesives or repair materials, especially for etched copper tracks on PCBs and as conductive joints between flexible conductive components and rigid grounding. They can also be formulated with moderate conductivity to allow them to carry low currents or signals.

Conductive epoxies can be modified with graphene or other semi-conducting materials to improve their conductivity and increase their use as protective coatings. For example, one study found that amino-functionalized regenerated cellulose (rGO) enhanced the corrosion resistance of an epoxy coating over mild steel. In this study, rGO was functionalized with APTES and GPTMS via the standard toluene route, and it was dispersed in acetone and mixed in an epoxy resin with a polyamide hardener before application onto the metal substrate and curing. Adding 2.5 wt% of P-AT-rGO significantly improved the corrosion resistance of the epoxy coating. This was attributed to the GO’s superior dispersibility in solvents and its ability to form non-covalent bonds with GR.

Chemical Resistant

Chemical resistance of a material refers to the ability of the material to resist degradation due to chemical attack. This damage can be caused by a number of things, including corrosion, oxidation, or other chemical reactions. Epoxy coatings can help protect a surface from these chemicals and provide abrasion resistance. For example, pipes transporting crude oil can be subjected to abrasion, which can cause cracks and leaks over time. Abrasion-resistant epoxy coatings can protect the surface of these pipes and help extend their lifespan.

The chemistry and network structure of an epoxy coating are significant factors in its chemical resistance properties. The resin, curing agent, and diluent all contribute to the overall network structure of the coating. The amount of crosslinking in the epoxy also impacts its resistance to specific chemicals. For example, a tighter network will have better resistance to swelling and diffusion of chemicals.

Conductive epoxies are often used in the electronics industry as a coating for etched copper traces on printed circuit boards, and as repair pastes to bridge conductive sections of broken PCBs. Conductivity of an epoxy coating can be increased by adding conductive fillers, such as carbon fiber or fullerenes. This enables the epoxy to carry low currents and signals through the substrate, which can be helpful in electronic applications.

Recently, an amino functionalized GO (fGO) has been added to an epoxy-based system to improve its abrasion and corrosion resistance properties. This fGO was silanized with 3-(glycidoxypropyl) trimethoxysilane (GPTMS) or 2-(aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES), and then dispersed in a polyamide hardener and mixed into the epoxy. The abrasion and corrosion resistance of the epoxy coating with this additive was compared to a standard epoxy coating using a Brookfield single-cylinder rotational viscometer and TECHNE gelation timer model FGT 6. The results showed that fGO had double the adhesion and water contact angle as the neat epoxy.

Shock Resistant

Thermal shock resistance is an important property for potting and coating applications. It allows the epoxy to withstand high temperatures, while still remaining flexible enough for use on surfaces that will experience a lot of movement and stress. A good thermal shock resistant epoxy will also have excellent shear and peel strength, which will help to prevent damage or failure of the substrate being coated.

A number of different epoxy formulations have been developed to meet specific requirements for a variety of projects. When choosing the right epoxy for your project, consider the type of surface you will be coating, the environmental conditions, and your budget. It is also important to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding curing times and temperatures, as overheating or stressing part-cured epoxy can decrease its durability.

One method of increasing the chemical resistance of an epoxy coating is to add a grafted cellulose nanofiller. This is a great way to improve the flexibility and durability of an epoxy-based product, as well as to reduce the amount of toxic chemicals used in the formulation.

Other methods of improving the corrosion resistance of an epoxy-based product include adding graphene or other carbon-based nanomaterials to the formulation. GO has been silanized with APTES and GPTMS to create a graphene-modified epoxy resin, which has been shown to be highly effective at protecting steel against corrosion.

Many industrial and household items are treated with epoxy powder coating to protect them from corrosion, wear and tear, and harsh environments. This includes electrical components such as wires and cables, which are constantly exposed to heat and moisture. It’s also common to see epoxy coating on construction items, such as rebar and steel poles, power tools, and hand tools, which are often subjected to extreme heat and stress.

Pest Control

Mice Removal – How to Get Rid of Mice Infestations

Mice can be a huge nuisance for homeowners. Their droppings can contaminate food, and their squeaking and scratching noises can keep homeowners awake at night.

Having the right rodent prevention methods can help prevent mice from entering homes. For example, trimming overgrowth in and around homes can eliminate breeding areas for mice. Also, storing wood and fabric in metal containers can deter rodents. Contact Mice Removal Service Texas now!

A mouse infestation is not just annoying—it’s dangerous. Mice spread diseases and can cause costly damage to a home. They can also chew through electrical wires, which poses a fire hazard. They also leave behind urine and feces, which can be a health hazard to humans.

Preventive measures that keep the rodents out are the best way to avoid mice. The most important step is to seal potential entry points. Mice can squeeze through cracks as small as a quarter of an inch, so it’s essential to regularly check for these holes and gaps and repair them promptly.

Food is one of mice’s biggest attractions, so storing grain, cereal, and pet food in airtight containers will help deter them. Removing crumbs and trash from your home is another helpful deterrent. You can also prevent mice from chewing through garbage bags by using airtight bins indoors and outdoors. Regularly cleaning up the yard can eliminate overgrown weeds and shrubs that offer mice shelter and hiding spots.

Mice are also attracted to warm places like attics, crawl spaces, and basements. To prevent mice from entering these areas, you should install door sweeps and repair weather damage to the roof and walls. Installing air duct covers and screening all fans and vents will keep mice out of your house, too.

Other preventative measures include keeping pets on a leash and cleaning up their droppings. Regular vacuuming and sweeping can also eliminate crumbs and residue that attract mice. Lastly, you can encourage natural predators of mice, such as cats, owls, and snakes, by keeping these animals near your home.

A professional exterminator can use traps, bait stations, and poison to get rid of mice infestations. They will also offer advice on how to prevent re-infestation. Mice are a serious health and safety concern, so it’s important to seek a solution quickly. With the right strategy and the expertise of a pest control company, such as Relief Pest Control, you can keep mice out of your home for good.

Trapping

Mouse trapping is an important component of any rodent control program, and it’s the preferred method in homes, garages, and other structures where only a few mice are present. It avoids the need for potentially dangerous rodenticides, permits the operator to view his or her success, and eliminates dead mouse odors that would otherwise occur when poison is used inside buildings.

Proper trap placement is critical to achieving successful results. Mice are nocturnal and leave a variety of signs in the house, including droppings, gnaw marks, and greasy marks along baseboards. They also follow the same paths between their nests and food sources, so observing where they travel can help determine where traps should be placed for best effect.

Ideally, traps should be checked at regular intervals and not allowed to remain unattended for extended periods. Doing so minimizes stress and discomfort to trapped mice and allows them to be quickly eliminated.

The most effective traps are those that use a bait such as peanut butter, cheese, or ham. Using a bait can increase the effectiveness of traps by attracting more mice and encouraging them to investigate. Many traps also feature windows that allow the operator to easily spot a catch, making them an excellent choice for situations where children and pets may be present. A wide range of lethal and live traps are available, including several varieties that can be used as humane traps with glue boards.

Clutter provides ideal hiding spots and nesting materials for mice, so keeping basements, attics, and garages clean is an important preventative measure. Keep trash bins securely closed and organized, and store food in airtight containers. Eliminate outdoor clutter by removing leaf piles, woodpiles, stored equipment and tools, and other debris that can provide shelter for mice.

The most effective traps have a hinged lid that opens to release captured mice, eliminating the need for touching dead mice with bare hands. It’s important to adhere to local guidelines for the release of captured animals, so as not to disturb their natural habitat. Properly disposing of trapped mice can minimize the risk of future infestations, as well as prevent disease transmission to pets and humans.

Pesticides

Mouse infestations must be dealt with as soon as they occur. This is not only for the health and safety of people but also for the welfare of animals, plants and property. Mice contaminate food, destroy cartons and paper products, and can spread diseases via their urine, saliva and feces. Their droppings can carry bacteria, including Salmonella and Yersinia enterocolitica. Their fleas can spread diseases such as leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM), and tularemia.

Generally, mice infestations are dealt with using traps and baits. When used correctly, these products are effective. However, they can be dangerous if children or pets get hold of them. For this reason, it is important to follow label instructions carefully.

Snap traps are inexpensive and easy to set. However, they are not recommended for use in homes with children or pets. Their sharp snap and immediate kill may present a danger to young children or pets. They can also be difficult to dispose of properly. For these reasons, a better option is to use bait stations, which contain the poison in sealed tamper-resistant bait stations. These stations can be placed in areas where rodents typically travel, such as mouse corridors or behind cabinets. They are a safe and efficient way to deal with a mouse problem, but they still must be monitored often, so that the poison is not consumed by non-target animals.

Other types of pesticides can be used to control mice. These include copper sulfate, which destroys fungi; horticultural oils, which are made from oil extracts of various plants and have anti-insect properties; and Bt toxin, produced by bacteria and effective against several insects. However, all pesticides have the potential to cause acute and chronic health effects if exposed to high levels.

It is best to work with a pest management professional to control the mice problem. They can provide the correct advice, the right product and the appropriate application method for your situation. They can also provide other services, such as fumigation, to eliminate all the mice in your home. This is a procedure that requires you to vacate the premises for some time, so this option should only be used when other methods have failed.

Inspection

As a property owner, you’re responsible for protecting your facility from mice infestations. This includes regular inspections by a professional rodent control expert, which can help you identify signs of infestation and take steps to prevent or eradicate the problem.

A mouse infestation can lead to costly damage to your property and expose you and your employees to health issues, including the spread of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. To prevent this, keep your facilities clear of debris and clutter that provides hiding places for rodents, fix all leaky faucets, eliminate outdoor standing water, and screen doors and windows. And be sure to schedule annual rodent inspections by a Critter Control specialist.

Mice droppings can be one of the first signs of a problem, and they aren’t picky about where they leave them. You may also notice gnaw marks on wood, wires, cardboard, or other items. Odd pet behavior is another sign of a mouse infestation; cats and dogs will often stare at walls or paw under refrigerators. And you may hear scurrying and scratching sounds at night.

In addition to identifying the location of mouse nests and entry points, a professional inspector can evaluate your property’s condition and suggest ways to make it less attractive to rodents. For example, he or she can recommend sealing cracks and crevices with caulk, expanding foam, or concrete, and he or she can advise you on keeping trash cans tightly closed and storing food in sealed containers.

Commercial buildings require a special type of inspection to ensure that a rodent problem isn’t wreaking havoc with your business. Inspecting your property on a regular basis can identify problems and allow for rapid treatment before they become severe, saving you time and money.

A professional rodent control specialist will conduct a comprehensive interior and exterior inspection to find nests, entry points, and damage to your property. He or she will then create a treatment plan that combines trapping, bait use, and exclusionary tactics to reduce the chance of future infestations. To minimize the cost of pest control services, consider comparing plans and pricing from several different companies. Some will include a free initial inspection and consultation to help you choose the right pest control company for your business.

Scientific Tools

Benefits of PCR Tube Strips

Pcr Strips provide a convenient way to store multiple samples in urgent care settings. They offer benefits that include improved sample organization, reduced risk of contamination, and increased Workflow efficiency.

PCR tube strips are easy to handle and offer excellent compatibility with most thermal cyclers. Whether you need domed or flat caps, these consumables seal easily and tightly.

PCR tubes store and prepare samples for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments. PCR is a process that replicates specific DNA fragments in vitro, making it easy to analyze or detect organisms that contain the target DNA. PCR tubes are clear or translucent and made of medical-grade polypropylene, which resists chemicals and is thermally stable. PCR tubes must be handled and stored properly to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results.

Typical applications for PCR tubes include genotyping, gene expression analysis, and detecting infectious agents like bacteria and viruses. PCR tubes are also ideal for use in labs that perform high-throughput experiments. They are designed and injection molded to resist the high temperatures and rapid temperature changes common in PCR. PCR tubes are available in various shapes and capacities, including strips with attached caps. PCR tube strips are typically sealed with flat or domed caps and may be white for optimal fluorescence performance or optically clear for qPCR.

The PCR tubes are precision manufactured to maintain tight dimensional tolerances and an ultra-thin wall for precise thermal transfer and efficient heat exchange. They are certified RNase, DNase, and DNA free and work at a temperature range from -80°C to +121°C. The consistent, uniform wall thickness allows a smooth surface that can be easily wiped down for clean sample preparation and labeling.

The tubes are also autoclavable at 121°C and have a high-polishing precision technology that improves light transmittance for fluorescence quantitative PCR. They are designed to be easily opened and closed, with a tight seal that reduces evaporation. The cap is made of a durable, high-impact material that protects the tube contents from damage during handling and transport. The concave design of the cap helps to prevent scratches and cross-contamination on the optical surface of the tube.

The PCR tubes are made of medical-grade polypropylene, and are injection molded to be compatible with standard thermal cyclers and real-time qPCR instruments. They are sterile and free of RNase, DNase, DNA, endotoxin and pyrogen, and they have a high-temperature resistance that ensures consistency and accuracy.

Cap Strips

Cap strips are a convenient sealing solution that is compatible with the BRAND PCR tube strip system. They come with strips of 8 or 12 individually attached caps to allow for a quick and easy assembly of a complete PCR tube. They are available with flat or dome caps and are optically clear to enable accurate qPCR measurements. Caps are shaped to be perfectly matched to BRAND tubes and plates, and seal them reliably and tightly to prevent sample loss or contamination. The caps are also easy to open and close, with side tabs for exact positioning before closing and a small opening attachment on each cap that makes it impossible to touch the inside of the cap. These features make PCR caps easier to use and ensure contamination-free results.

These cap strips have a domed shape that provides additional sealing pressure through the lid of the thermal cycler. This pressure helps prevent well-to-well samples from evaporating and contaminating each other. They are also designed to fit a variety of thermocyclers, including the Eppendorf Mastercycler X50 family, and offer a high level of transparency that enables accurate fluorescence measurement. The caps are crafted under cleanroom conditions and are RNase, DNase, human DNA, and pyrogen free. They are suitable for both manual and automatic opening and closing, and can be sterilized in autoclaves.

The caps have a patented 45 degree angular attachment that prevents the hinges and lips of other caps from interfering with one another and allows for easier operation in an SBS format rack. The angled attachment also helps to keep the caps from touching during the PCR cycle, reducing sample-to-sample contamination. These caps are manufactured with virgin, medical-grade polypropylene to guarantee the highest level of safety and performance. They are RNase, DNase, human DNA, pyrogen, and endotoxin free and are manufactured under cleanroom conditions to prevent exposure to microorganisms and contamination. They are also sterile and autoclavable and have a non-stick surface for effortless cleaning.

Fast PCR Tube Strips

PCR tube strips offer a convenient and economical way to purchase a group of eight tubes that can be used together in your thermocycler. Designed to fit together tightly within the angular design of a thermal cycler, these strip-format tubes are characterized by their ultra-thin walls which ensure efficient and homogenous heat transfer and allow optimal PCR results. Their caps are tightly attached and sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination. Certified free from human DNA, DNase, RNase and PCR inhibitors, these tubes are ideal for use in PCR and qPCR applications.

Unlike traditional glass tubes, these PCR tube strips are made of polyethylene which transfers heat more quickly than tubes made of polypropylene. This enables scientists using fast PCR reagent kits or running PCR cycles on cyclers with high heating and cooling rates to obtain significantly higher PCR yield. Compared to other tubes, these strips also provide improved light capture for fluorescence assays.

PCR tube strips have a standard volume of 0.2 ml, and can be purchased with or without caps (depending on your specific application). The flat cap lids are easy to open and seal with a snap, providing an airtight seal to minimise sample evaporation. Typically, these tubes are autoclavable and have 45deg nested links between the tubes which prevent interference with other tubes in a PCR rack. These strips are also available in a white option to improve light capture for fluorescent assays and DiamondLink and QuickSnap options which feature breakable links between tubes for customization and flexibility.

Business Services

The Best BBQ in Mesa

Whether you’re in the mood for traditional barbecue or inventive barbecue fusion dishes, Mesa’s East Valley restaurants deliver. They offer outstanding service and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families, couples, and solo diners alike.

My plate of smoked ribs arrives with a cherry glaze that tastes like it’s been merged with Oaxacan mole. Drew Bent, Papalo’s chef de cuisine, explains the fusion comes from his background in Mexican cooking. Click the Mesa BBQ to learn more.

BJ’s started in California in 1978 and now offers a huge menu in its brewpubs. From boisterous salads to brisket and chicken, there are plenty of options here for everyone. They also keep an allergen menu that is updated frequently, making this a good choice for dairy-free diners.

The BJ’s peppered BBQ burger is topped with sweet, tangy BJ’s sauce and melty Jack and cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect combo of savory and sweet, with a hint of spicy. The fresh baby kale also adds a bit of crunch to this meal. Pair it with an Oasis, a smooth malty beer, or try something hoppier like their seasonal Zany Citrus IPA.

Bobby – Q Craft BBQ & Tap Room

Bobby – Q is a highly-ranked BBQ restaurant that opened a new location in Mesa. This popular restaurant is a must-visit for barbecue lovers looking to try new flavors and cuisines. It offers various options, including pulled pork, brisket, St. Louis ribs, sausage, and mac-n-cheese, which are made with five different cheeses. Customers rave about their tangy barbeque sauce, generous portions, and friendly service.

The grill comes with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates that provide even heat distribution and a durable finish. The grill also features an easy-to-clean lid that eliminates the need to lift it when checking food, preventing heat and flavor loss. This grill is also portable, making it easy to take with you on outdoor adventures.

In addition to the BBQ Classic, the festival also includes a craft fair where visitors can sample a variety of barbecue and other foods from local vendors. Guests can enjoy live music and culinary art demonstrations. The event also offers a number of galleries featuring regionally recognized artists. The CRAFT Q is an inaugural celebration of Arizona’s diverse artist communities.

Downtown Mesa BBQ Classic

The East Valley of Arizona is home to several barbecue restaurants that offer a variety of delicious options. Many of them specialize in long smoking processes, resulting in flavorful meats that resonate with authenticity and craftsmanship. These establishments also offer a welcoming atmosphere, catering to families and groups of all sizes. They also strive to maintain high standards of service, enhancing their reputation as top dining destinations.

Whether you’re in the mood for classic pulled pork, tender brisket, or inventive barbecue fusion dishes, Mesa’s selection of restaurants will satisfy your cravings. In addition, many of these restaurants offer a variety of drinks and appetizers to accompany your meal. Some even offer vegetarian options, making them a great option for diners with dietary restrictions.

For those who are interested in attending a barbecue competition, the Downtown Mesa Association is hosting the Downtown Mesa BBQ Classic on Nov. 3-4. The event will feature a Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned competition with pitmasters from across the country. It will include a one-meat challenge and four-meat master’s series competition, and over 100 certified KCBS members have applied to be judges, according to a press release.

The event will take place in downtown Mesa and is free to attend. There will be a People’s Choice Contest, where attendees can vote for their favorite BBQ competitors. In addition, there will be a Craft Q, featuring regionally recognized art exhibitors, live music, culinary arts, and cooking demonstrations. A teaser event was held in September at the City Plaza featuring local backyard smokers from city departments and businesses.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Mesa is a family-friendly restaurant that serves American cuisine. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. BJ’s is known for its impeccable service, even during peak hours. The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that its customers have an enjoyable experience.

Located in the Fiesta District, Green Corner is a fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant that’s one of the few places in Mesa where you can get authentic cuisine. You can order at the counter and choose from a range of entrees, including falafel, gyros, shawarma, and kababs. Each entree comes with a side of yellow rice, pita, and hummus. The beef shawarma is especially delicious, and it’s topped with copious amounts of delectable garlic sauce and hummus.

East Valley BBQ Restaurants

In a city that has no shortage of restaurants, the Mesa area holds its own when it comes to barbecue. With the right recipe, a long smoking process and authentic ingredients, the best Arizona barbecue joints produce tender meats with rich, smoky flavors that resonate with authenticity and craftsmanship. These local favorites are a must-try for all barbecue lovers.

Caldwell County BBQ is to the East Valley what Eric’s Family BBQ is to the West Valley, proving that Texas-style barbecue isn’t a requirement for a first-class meal. Line up at the counter and order links, turkey and thick slices of brisket by the pound before picking your sides and finding a spot inside or outside to sit down. The smoked meats are served with three sauce options to add a sweet, spicy or tangy kick to your dish, while creamy mac and cheese and a block of cornbread round out the meal.

The owners of this family-owned barbecue joint in Queen Creek started with a food truck and catering business before opening their Ahwatukee counter service spot, serving Mississippi-style barbecue that’s sweet, saucy and different than the rest of the Valley’s offerings. The ribs are particularly noteworthy, coming in two varieties: a traditional, meaty variety and a less-tender, almost shredded style. The menu also features brisket sausage and a few other pork specialties.

Across the country, it’s been inspiring to watch so many of the nation’s most beloved barbecue restaurants rise to new challenges with unflappable ease. While there is no denying the fact that the coronavirus pandemic has impacted tourism, these local favorites are demonstrating that resilience isn’t just a word — it’s a way of life.

While some of the top-rated Phoenix barbecue spots have had to scale back their operations during the pandemic, it’s been heartening to see so many of them reopen with full menus and crowds eager to dig into the likes of burnt ends, brisket sandwiches and tender pork ribs. Here are a few of the most outstanding examples of Phoenix barbecue that are still going strong in 2024.