FIGURE 5.1 - Alcohol sterilization of a glass plating rod. (a) The "hanger-shaped" end of the rod is inserted into a container in which 70% ethanol has been placed. (b) The alcohol drenched rod is ignited by quickly passing it into the flame of a Bunsen burner or alcohol lamp. (c) The alcohol on the end of the rod is allowed to burn away. The rod is allowed to cool for several minutes before further use.