An improved microscope stage for direct observation of freezing and freeze drying

A microscope stage for observation of freezing and freeze drying is described. The stage uses thermoelectric (Peltier) heaters configured in two stages, with circulating fluid as a heat sink on the high temperature side. Lowest attainable sample temperature is about -47 degrees C. Principal advantages of this system are closed-loop control of stage temperature, rapid response to changes in temperature set point, and improved documentation of experiments by use of a video recorder system with a character generator which allows display of sample identity and temperature. Accuracy of measuring the sample temperature in the field of view was validated by comparing observed values of eutectic melting with published values for a series of solutes with eutectic temperatures in the range from -2 degrees C to -32 degrees C. Good agreement was obtained throughout this range.