Australia's Science Forum

Hi Guys,

Ive read before that many use microwave ovens to destroy agar plates when like myself you dont have an autoclave or pressure cooker. I have just become the proud owner of a new micrwave and am now looking to destroy the back log of plates I have in the deep freeze. Ive put them in oven bags as suggested but couldnt see mentioned how long I should "nuke" them for!!! Dont want to blow the place Up!!!

Thanks MariaC

If you do a search for agar plates and microwave you should find what you need...

Good Luck!

Sassi

Thanks sassi found it, though my first attempt ended in bursting oven bags which was very unpleasant So now cooking in five minutes bursts and allowing to cool before cooking again so hopefully no more mess in my new microwave

MariaC

Well done Maria, some times it is only trial and more trials. Each Microwave has a different watt, so each takes a different time. It is by far the best way to go. I know use two oven bags. Did the same thing. Good luck