Advances in Specimen Preparation for Biological SEM

Abstract

This chapter should be read in conjunction with the chapters on the same subject in SEMXM, where we attempted to enunciate some of the general principles of specimen preparation. Here we will deal with the new methods which have been developed specifically for use in the SEM as distinct from electron microscopy generally. This is a rapidly developing topic in microscopy and it will not be possible to deal in depth with all new developments. Frequent reference will be made to specialist papers which give detailed instructions on how to carry out a particular technique. Much of what will be discussed here will apply to biological and organic samples, for it is with these samples that the problems are most exacting. As well as providing an updated guide to the general problems of specimen preparation, emphasis will be placed on the techniques which permit an analysis of the chemical properties of specimens.