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

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

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

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.

See also

• Microtome
• Electron microscopy
• Transmission electron microscopy
• Scanning electron microscopy

References

Ultramicrotome Resources
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