ABSTRACT
Fourier Transform-Infrared [FT-IR] microscopy is a combination of instrumentation from which information can be derived about the structure and composition of materials; however, it presents unique problems for sample preparation. Traditional methods of preparing fiber cross sections employ embedding media such as methacrylates, epoxides and polyvinyl alcohols, all of which have groups in common with the cellulose molecule, and absorb in the same regions of the IR spectrum. Therefore, a new embedding method employing polystyrene has been developed for the preparation of cross and longitudinal sections of cellulosic fibers. Although polystyrene is a strong IR absorbing material, it can be completely removed from specimens prior to analysis. In addition, FT-IR spectra of cross sections have better resolution than conventional preparation methods employing ground samples prepared in a KBr disk.
Subject(s)
Plastic Embedding/methods , Cellulose , Microscopy, Electron , Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared , X-Ray DiffractionABSTRACT
A quick embedding method using UV polymerization of methacrylate plastic has been devised for embedding fibers encased in a polyvinyl chloride tube. The resulting embedments are suitable for light microscopy and image analysis.
Subject(s)
Gossypium/cytology , Methacrylates , Plastic Embedding , Image Processing, Computer-Assisted/methods , Microscopy/methods , Polymers , Ultraviolet RaysABSTRACT
A quick embedding method employing UV polymerization reactions has been devised for embedding fibers in acrylic and methacrylate media. The resultant thin, flat embeddings are suitable for both light and electron microscopy.
