When you think "thermometer", you often imagine this small glass tube containing a red or silver liquid. This thermometer is a Thermometer with mercury, real professional temperature taking tool. It was used as medical thermometer Before being removed from the market. How does it work? Why did he disappear? What Mercury -free thermometers have become good alternatives? Our experts explain everything to you.
The thermometer with Mercury 🧪

You think you should Choose between a thermometer with mercury and a mercury thermometer, but it's not that simple. Here is why these thermometers have disappeared from the market.
The history of the thermometer with Mercury
THE Thermometer with mercury was created in 1724 by Gabriel Fahrenheit. Its glass bulb contains mercury, a liquid metal whose volume increases with temperature, allowing a precise measurement.
The dangers of the thermometer with Mercury
Mercury is one of the toxic heavy metals. In case of breakage, he can cause health problems, in particular by inhalation of his vapors.
If a Thermometer with mercury Cashes, his vapors can be inhaled, representing a danger particularly in a hospital environment.
The gradual removal of the thermometer with mercury
In France, the sale of Thermometers with Mercury was prohibited in 1998, then in 1999 for hospitals. Europe followed in 2007.
Mercury -free thermometers 📲

Many alternatives to Medical thermometers exist today: Subbras thermometers, contactless thermometers, and other infrared temperature sensors.
The axillary thermometer
This axillary thermometer, with stainless steel tip, looks like old mercury models. It is used for measurements under the armpit or by rectal route, and its digital screen displays the temperature with precision.
The infrared thermometer
THE infrared thermometers, whether they are frontal Or auricular, allow rapid temperature intake and contactless. Their LCD screen display facilitates reading.
The different types of thermometers
Alternatives to Thermometer with mercury There are many:
- Electronic/digital thermometer
- Mechanical thermometer
- Infrared thermometer
- Gallium thermometer
- Thermometer with probe
- Galileo thermometer
- Multifunction thermometer
- VS anemometer thermometer
To choose the right thermometer, it is essential to determine your needs in terms of precision, speed and mode of use.