[3dem] prepare Formvar Grids

[Peter Engelhardt]

Hi Dennis,

We use simple almost "magic" foolproof method - originally shown by Jan Derksen visiting our lab in1970ties.

- Polish slides with a clean cotton towel extensively that is all corners etc 
- Ready when you experience that the slide appears more slippery after polishing - might take some time.
- Blow away the lint that might appear.
- Proceed instantly accordingly to any of the protocols presented.

The procedure helps when the air is very dry - e.g.in winter time
and in labs for cryo-EM works where the humidity is kept purposely low.

Let's hope this trick helps

Cheers
Peter


On Sep 27, 2012, at 11:30 PM, Denis Chaix wrote:

> Hello
> We have actualy some troubles to prepare Formvar films.
> In fact it's impossible to release the film from the glass slide.
> Here you can find our protocol
> 
> Formvar solution. 0,4% in chloroform .
> Pour the solution into a clean Coplin jar
> Dip pre-cleaned slides ( rub thoroughly with Kimwipes) into beaker.
> Drain corner on side of beaker.
> Blot edge of slide on filter paper.
> Score the edges of the Formvar film with an acetone-cleaned razor blade.
> Breathe over the length of the slide to loosen the film.
> Float the film off onto a clean water surface by slowly immersing the slide into the water at a 45° angle.
> 
> 
> Have you some tricks or tips to improve this protocol and help the release of the film ?
> For example, have you some ideas like special brand of slides, or a way to clean the slides.
> 
> Thanks
> 
> 
> 
> Denis
> -- 
> --
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> Chaix Denis <denis.chaix at ibs.fr>
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_________________________________________________________
Peter Engelhardt, PhD, docent
Adjunct Professor in Molecular Genetics
Unit of Molecular Electron Tomography

Department of Pathology
Haartman Institute
P.O.Box 21, FI-00014 Univ. of Helsinki, Finland
Visiting Address: Haartmaninkatu 3, Helsinki

Nanomicroscopy Center (NMC ), Department of Applied Physics
Aalto University, School of Science and Technology,
Puumiehenkuja 2, FI02150 Espoo
Finland

Home address:
Lindstedstvägen 1 B 7
FI-02700 Grankulla,
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Mobile:  +358-(0)400193342
Email: Peter.Engelhardt at Helsinki.Fi
URL: http://www.lce.hut.fi/~engelhar/

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