Plastic embedding and polishing of bone for reflected light and electron microscopy

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Microscopy Techniques
• Biological Sample Preparation

Background:

• Sample embedding is critical for subsequent microscopic analysis.
• Bone presents unique challenges for embedding procedures.
• Standardized embedding protocols are often lacking in scientific literature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed and successful protocol for embedding bone samples.
• To facilitate both reflected light and scanning electron microscopy of bone.

Main Methods:

• The chapter outlines a specific, adapted in-house protocol developed at the Natural History Museum.
• The protocol is designed for embedding bone specimens.

Main Results:

• The presented protocol has proven successful for bone embedding at the Natural History Museum.
• The method is effective for both reflected light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.

Conclusions:

• A reliable protocol for bone embedding is presented, addressing a gap in detailed scientific reporting.
• This method enhances the preparation of bone samples for advanced microscopic examination.