Thistle tubes are used in scientific research and educational laboratories to introduce a liquid into another substance. They are also used for mixing chemicals together in laboratory vessels such as Erlenmeyer flasks. They can demonstrate scientific processes like osmosis (water molecule movement across a permeable membrane) and diffusion (movement of molecules from a higher concentration to a lower one).
Industrial chemicals are often formed using thistle tubes. Chlorine is a chemical used to manufacture chlorides like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and hydrochloric acid. Sulfuric acid is used in the processing of metals and in the manufacture of synthetic detergents, dyes and pigments. Potassium, nitrogen and phosphorous are used as agricultural fertilizers. The thistle tube introduces different chemicals together to form liquids and gases for industrial use. Chemical gases (hydrogen chloride and ammonia) can be siphoned off using a side outlet or discharge on the mixing vessel (beaker or flask).
Pharmaceutical and clinical laboratories use thistle tubes to introduce, mix and dilute chemicals in the study and production of medicines. The thistle tube allows for a constant and precise flow of one substance into another. This insures that medicine concentrations are accurate and safe.