Ultramicrotome

Ultramicrotome

An Ultramicrotome is a specialized instrument used in microscopy for the preparation of extremely thin sections of samples for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) or scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It operates on the principle of a diamond or glass knife to cut ultra-thin sections of specimens, typically biological in nature, but also of various materials such as minerals and polymers.

History[edit | edit source]

The development of the ultramicrotome was a significant advancement in the field of electron microscopy. Prior to its invention, the preparation of thin sections for TEM was a laborious and time-consuming process. The ultramicrotome, with its ability to produce thin sections quickly and consistently, revolutionized the field and greatly expanded the capabilities of electron microscopy.

Operation[edit | edit source]

The ultramicrotome operates by using a diamond or glass knife to cut thin sections from a block of resin-embedded material. The block is mounted on a block holder, which is then attached to the arm of the ultramicrotome. The arm moves the block across the knife, producing a thin section with each pass. The thickness of the sections can be controlled by adjusting the distance the arm moves with each pass.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Ultramicrotomes are used in a variety of scientific fields, including biology, medicine, and materials science. In biology and medicine, they are used to prepare thin sections of tissues and cells for examination under a TEM or SEM. In materials science, they are used to prepare thin sections of materials such as polymers and metals for examination under a TEM.

References[edit | edit source]

Ultramicrotome Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.