Ultrasonic Homogenizers
Ultrasonic Homogenizers
Devices employing ultrasonic waves to homogenize samples; useful for disrupting cells/subcellular structures in suspension, and for creating emulsions. Available as handheld and benchtop models with a range of probe sizes and programming functions.
Also called sonicators, these devices use ultrasonic waves to homogenize samples and are used to prepare samples and create emulsions.
What Is an Ultrasonic Homogenizer?
Ultrasonic homogenizers are commonly used to disrupt cells and tissues via sound waves and the cavitation that they cause. The homogenizer tip vibrates rapidly, creating bubbles that form and collapse. This action tears apart any cells or particles in the solution.
An ultrasonic homogenizer consists of:
- A power generator and control
- A transducer or converter to change electric energy into high-frequency mechanical motion
- A probe or “horn,” typically made of titanium, which vibrates rapidly and longitudinally to transmit energy to the sample
What Are the Applications of an Ultrasonic Homogenizer?
- Create emulsions
- Disperse nanoparticles
- Reduce the size of suspended particles
- Break apart cells and subcellular structures in suspension
- Shear DNA (beneficial for some applications)
Are There Drawbacks to Using an Ultrasonic Homogenizer?
Unless it is first macerated and processed as a suspension, sonication does not work well for intact tissue. For gritty samples, use special horns or those with replaceable tips to prevent pitting.
Choose an ultrasonic homogenizer with enough power (wattage) to handle larger or more challenging samples or to process small samples quickly.
Sonication may not be compatible with temperature-sensitive samples because homogenizers generate a significant amount of heat.
The high-powered sound waves of ultrasonic homogenizers also create a hazard. At a minimum, wear ear protection or use in a separate area or inside a sound enclosure.
Fisherbrand™ Model 505 Sonic Dismembrator

High power, programmable system ideal for nanotechnology, cell disruption and homogenization applications.

Fisherbrand™ Model 120 Sonic Dismembrator

Programable system ideal for small volume liquid processing. Includes 1/8 in. probe for processing 0.5-15ml volumes. There are 3 probe size options available which allow for processing 0.2-50mL volumes.

Fisherbrand™ Model 705 Sonic Dismembrator

Ultra-high power with advanced programming for all liquid processing applications, 220V. Includes standard 1/2 in. Replaceable tip probe (#FB4220) for processing 20-250 mL volumes. There are many probe size options available which allow for processing 0.2-1000 mL volumes.

Qsonica Sonicator Q700


A state-of-the-art touch screen interface offers intuitive control and provides a user-friendly experience
Qsonica Sonicator Q55

Compact and cost-effective ultrasonic processor that will occupy less bench space
Branson Ultrasonics™ Sonifier™ SFX150 Cell Disruptor
Branson Ultrasonics Sonifier™ SFX150 Cell Disruptor with advanced controls gives more precise control over all critical elements of experiment.
Qsonica Sonicator Q125


The unit is effective for standard cell disruption, DNA/RNA shearing, homogenization and many other applications
Branson Ultrasonics™ Sonifier™ SFX250/SFX550 Cell Disruptors
Advanced controls gives more precise control over all critical elements of experiment.
Qsonica Q800R3 Sonicator

DNA Shearing Sonicator
Qsonica Sonicator Q500


Popular applications include nanoparticle dispersion, creating emulsions, cell lysis and homogenization
BioSpec Products Tissue-Tearor with 7 mm Probe

The Tissue-Tearor is a rotor/stator type tissue homogenizer which can rapidly homogenize, disrupt, and emulsify samples in 0.5 - 1000 ml of liquid. Complete homogenization of tissues (muscle, liver, breast tissue, etc.) is usually achieved in ten to thirty seconds. Little, if any, heat is produced during the process. Practical Working Range (ml) .5-50 Probe Diameter (mm) 7 Probe Length (cm) 8.3

AVESTIN INC EMULSIFLEX-C3 Heat Exchanger
Sanitary heat exchanger Avestin for stringent temperature control. Includes all required tubing and fittings. Can be used to control product temperatures.

Sonics & Materials Inc SONICATOR 130WATT MODEL VCX130
VCX130 Ultrasonic Processor; 130W; Energy Monitor; Digital Wattmeter; Ten Hour Timer; 1 to 59 Second Independent ON/OFF Pulser; Variable Power Output Control; Remote Process Capability; Microprocessor Based

BioSpec Products BIOHOMOGENIZER, 1.4 CM PROBE

The BioHomogenizer is a rotor-stator type tissue homogenizer designed to rapidly homogenize, disperse, and emulsify biological samples in aqueous media. Probe included.

Cole-Parmer Cole-Parmer 750-Watt Ultrasonic Homogenizer with Temp Controller; 230V
These ultrasonic processors have the same features as the models above plus an integral temperature controller and memory. The temperature controller prevents harmful overheating of the sample by terminating the ultrasonics when the sample reaches a predetermined temperature limit (select from 1 to 100ºC); order temperature probe separately below. The time-saving memory stores up to ten procedures to facilitate protocol duplication, automate repetitive tasks, and eliminate user-to-user method variability for consistent reproducibility.

Fisherbrand™ Model 50 Sonic Dismembrator PROMO
Economical, small volume cell disruptor. Includes 1/8 in. probe for processing 0.5 to 15 mL volumes. There are 3 probe size options available which allow for processing 0.2 to 50 mL volumes.
Branson Ultrasonics™ Sonifier™ S-450A Analog Ultrasonic Cell Disruptor/Homogenizer
Versitile laboratory unit suitable for a broad range of liquid processing applications.
MEASUREMENT SPECIALTIES INC model 3000 thermometer
Easy-to-operate temperature measurement system for quick and precise readings. Developed for clinical, diagnostic, and quality assurance instrumentation, thermometer complies with FDA standards. Unit features minimum/maximum temperature display in both Celsius and Fahrenheit on a 9cm (3 1/2") LCD screen. Thermometer's hand-held, lightweight design allows for greater portability in laboratory and clinical settings.

Cole-Parmer Cole-Parmer LabGEN 125 Homogenizer Kit, Hard tissue version
Cole-Parmer’s LabGEN homogenizers are well-suited for a wide range of processing applications —use as a handheld unit or post-mount to the optional stand for hands-free operation. Plastic tip probes are maintenance-free and do not require the disassembly associated with traditional stainless steel generators. Tips are available in both soft tissue (deaggregations) and hard tissue (frozen) versions; designed to work with sample volumes between 0.25 to 30 mL. Engineered from durable plastics, these tips may be autoclaved and reused, or disposed of after each use to eliminate cross contamination.
