Highly sensitive research in Antarctica
MK Mobile Lab on research vessel “Polarstern”
Sample purity has always been one of the most important issues in science. When it comes to protecting valuable finds or samples from contamination, many research groups therefore rely on our metal-free work environments. This is also the case for the scientists aboard the research vessel Polarstern. The ship is operated by the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research (AWI) in Bremerhaven.
A new product with many technical highlights
We designed and built this mobile lab, which looks like a standard shipping container from the outside, in 2021. The mobile lab has been in use on the research vessel Polarstern since late 2021 and continues to be maintained at our facilities outside of research season.
Research in the lab focusses on how the availability of trace metals-particularly iron, but also manganese, zinc and cobalt – influences the growth of microalgae in the Southern Ocean. It is of great importance that nothing corrodes, which is why the surface must be metal-free. Additionally, any attached screws are encapsulated to ensure the purest possible environment.
“The absolute highest priority during use and analysis is the absolute purity of the collected water sample. Even the slightest contamination or reaction with metallic substances in the cleanroom environment would distord or completely invalidate the scientific results,” says MK Project Manager Wolfgang Küstner.
The water samples can be analyzed quickly using the built-in technology. A laminar airflow in special ultra-clean air workstations prevents turbulence and ensures a clean environment. The system also allows the air temperature to be maintained at a constant level, for example, to reduce contamination of sample material by lowering the temperature.
In addition, the laboratory is equipped with an ultrapure water system t oensure the best possible water quality, as well as non-slip flooring and handrails to compensate for rough seas.
More about MK Mobile Labs
More Information about our Mobile Labs
Frequently Asked Questions
We answer the most common questions about MK Pilot Plants
What does MK Versuchsanlagen do?
MK Versuchsanlagen GmbH & Co. KG, based in Mücke-Merlau (Hesse, Germany), has specialized since 1988 in metal-free laboratory systems, cleanroom technology, and automated Glove Testing Systems.
The company develops and manufactures customized solutions for the pharmaceutical, life sciences, semiconductor, and optics industries – from contamination-free cleanrooms made from metal-free materials to Glove Integrity Test Systems (GITS®), as well as custom software and Industry 4.0 electronics. Production is carried out entirely in-house, certified according to ISO 9001:2015 and at the highest quality level.
Who is behind MK Versuchsanlagen?
MK Versuchsanlagen is a family-owned company based in Mücke-Merlau (Hesse, Germany), founded in 1988 by Michael Keil. As managing director, he continues to shape the strategic direction and technological innovation of the company.
The management team combines deep technical expertise, years of industry experience, and a strong vision for quality, innovation, and customer proximity.
The company culture emphasizes personal responsibility, close cooperation with customers worldwide, and a strong focus on sustainable manufacturing “Made in Germany.”
All development, design, software and hardware engineering, and manufacturing are carried out by a dedicated team at the company’s headquarters in Central Hesse.
What are metal-free cleanrooms?
Metal-free systems are laboratory or cleanroom installations built entirely without metallic components. Instead of stainless steel or aluminum, they use special materials such as chemically resistant fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP).
Avoiding metals eliminates even the smallest contaminations – a critical factor in areas where the highest purity is required, for example:
- In ultra-trace and trace analysis (e.g., geochemical research)
- In the production or testing of pharmaceutical ingredients
- In semiconductor, optics, or environmental research
Metal-free cleanrooms ensure reliable analysis results and protect sensitive samples and processes from metal contamination. In addition, corrosion is prevented through the exclusive use of chemical-resistant materials.
MK Versuchsanlagen specializes in the development of such systems and is one of the leading providers in this field.
What are metal-free cleanrooms?
Metal-free systems are laboratory or cleanroom installations built entirely without metallic components. Instead of stainless steel or aluminum, they use special materials such as chemically resistant fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP).
Avoiding metals eliminates even the smallest contaminations – a critical factor in areas where the highest purity is required, for example:
- In ultra-trace and trace analysis (e.g., geochemical research)
- In the production or testing of pharmaceutical ingredients
- In semiconductor, optics, or environmental research
Metal-free cleanrooms ensure reliable analysis results and protect sensitive samples and processes from metal contamination. In addition, corrosion is prevented through the exclusive use of chemical-resistant materials.
MK Versuchsanlagen specializes in the development of such systems and is one of the leading providers in this field.
Where and under what conditions can mobile laboratory containers be used?
Our mobile laboratory containers – MK Mobile Labs – are designed for flexible use in virtually any location. Whether on the roof of a research institute, aboard an expedition ship, or in remote regions: they can be quickly deployed, require minimal construction effort, and are usually not subject to the permitting requirements of traditional buildings.
Thanks to their modular design, metal-free construction, and customizable technology, they are ideal for projects with changing locations, limited space, or special safety requirements.
How do you ensure the cleanroom meets our specific requirements?
We design every cleanroom as a customized solution – precisely tailored to your technical, spatial, and process-specific needs.
During a structured planning process, all relevant factors are clarified in advance: from intended use and cleanroom classification to specific workflows and regulatory requirements.
All components are manufactured in-house, ensuring maximum flexibility and quality.
Through close collaboration throughout the entire project – from consultation and design to installation and commissioning – we deliver a cleanroom that is technically, functionally, and economically optimized for your application.
What is the benefit of laminar airflow in metal-free systems?
Laminar airflow – either vertical or horizontal – flushes airborne particles out of the workspace, ensuring an exceptionally clean environment.
Turbulence is avoided, and although the airflow velocity is low, high air exchange rates are still possible.
The incoming air is filtered using HEPA or ULPA filters to remove even the smallest particles before entering the critical work area.
Additionally, laminar flow helps safely and efficiently remove heat loads and chemical acid vapors from the workspace, without endangering users.
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