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Q: How do I prepare my specimen for electron microscopy?
A: Preparation varies depending on the type of sample and the type of imaging required. We will be pleased to discuss your individual project and help design a protocol to meet your needs.
Q: How long will it be before I can look at my specimens?
A: Processing time varies depending on the sample and lab scheduling. Samples generally are processed in the order in which they were received. TEM processing of biological samples requires a minimum of several days and must be started early in the week. SEM preparation, on the other hand, usually can be completed relatively quickly, especially for dry materials. We can give you an accurate idea of time required when we meet with you to discuss your microscopy project.
Q: What size samples can be accommodated?
A: SEM specimens one inch in diameter or smaller fit into the JSM-6300 chamber easily; the new JEOL JSM-6490 can accommodate much larger specimens and multiple samples. Biological TEM samples should be reduced to pieces of 1 cubic millimeter or smaller for optimal fixation/dehydration; nonbiological samples of variable size can be utilized. Please call for specific guidelines.
Q: How can a teacher get started demonstrating the scanning electron microscope for a K-12 class?
A: Go to the remote-operations page and download three items: the two sets of instructions found there and the VNC freeware program to access and control the microscope. Read through the instructions, install VNC (you may need to consult your IT department for permissions, but the actual download is very simple). Then contact us to reserve times for a teacher "practice" session as well as the actual class demonstration. We will let you know what samples are available, or discuss use of your own samples. Please try to schedule two weeks or more in advance, although sometimes we may be able to work with shorter notice.
updated
15 October 2008 10:48 AM
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