A simplified method of specimen preparation for X-ray microanalysis of muscle and blood cells

The effect of various steps in the preparation of muscle and blood cells for electron microscopic X-ray microanalysis, was studied with reference to calcium, zinc and copper levels. It was found that these elements are readily detectable in material fixed in glutaraldehyde and embedded directly in Epon 812. Alcohol dehydration, buffer rinses and post-osmication caused marked depletion of all elements examined.