PROBLEMS IN METHACRYLATE EMBEDDING FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

Abstract

The chemistry of methacrylate polymerization is summarized, and the factors which influence the rate and degree of polymerization are described. When methacrylate is handled in air, dissolved O2, acting either as an initiator or as an inhibitor, depending on quantity, produces an uncontrolled condition and prevents uniform, homogeneous polymerization. Improvement in the preservation of cell and tissue fine structure has been obtained by carefully removing air, commercial inhibitors and water from the casting material. The submerged tissue is slowly evacuated in the embedding capsule and sealed under N. Then polymerization proceeds under UV light or elevated temperature.