title: Improved Epon embedding for biomaterials.
abstract: To obtain improved transmission electron microscopy sections for cell biological and interface evaluation of implanted biomaterials we present an improved embedding procedure. Standard problems in preparation and sectioning, like dissolution of the biomaterial, or holes and chatter in the sections can be prevented by introducing butyl-2,3-epoxypropylether as an intermedium between the dehydration series and the Epon resin. Most biomaterials were not affected by this chemical agent. The introduction of butyl-2,3-epoxypropylether resulted in completely homogeneous Epon blocks which enabled us to cut 50 nm sections, free of holes and chatter. The biomaterials did not dislodge during the process of sectioning and the cell-polymer interface remained intact for electron microscopical evaluation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Histology and Cell Biology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors.forename: E H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Blaauw
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Oosterbaan
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Schakenraad
mesh_terms: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D004853:Epoxy Resins; D006652:Histological Techniques; D008854:Microscopy, Electron
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D004853:Epoxy Resins; C004875:EPON