A simple procedure for obtaining clean sections for TEM

Abstract

After ultrathin sections are cut, contamination can result not only from the staining and rinsing solutions but also from improper handling technique. A new procedure is described which is simple to perform and enables one to obtain cleaner sections for EM examination.Commercially available instruments and materials (Ted Pella, Inc.) are used for this procedure: A Pelco Vacuum Device (fig. 1) is connected by flexible plastic tubing to an adaptor which can accept various sized metal needles. The vacuum can be finger-tip controlled at the aperture within the adaptor. Cohen-Pelco Tabbed Grids are used for section support. A flat, silicone rubber grid holder is used for staining and rinsing of several grids at one time.