[Hand microtome] Have you tried razor scraper?

Here you can discuss sample and specimen preparation issues.
Post Reply
Message
Author
Kevin_r
Posts: 48
Joined: Tue Aug 04, 2020 1:36 am

[Hand microtome] Have you tried razor scraper?

#1 Post by Kevin_r » Thu Dec 10, 2020 2:17 pm

I’m just wondering if you tried to use a razor blade scraper in making hand sectioned specimens.
A razor blade scraper is primarily used for window cleaning and car detailing.
I feel like is is great for hand sectioning since it is used with horizontal force and displacement. Also, the single edge blades used is quite cheap.

Lastly, what are tips and tricks in making very thin slice?
Attachments
EFCDE74A-7430-4DF3-B9D1-331A10BB2AEB.jpeg
EFCDE74A-7430-4DF3-B9D1-331A10BB2AEB.jpeg (90.16 KiB) Viewed 2398 times

DonSchaeffer
Posts: 3275
Joined: Sun Mar 22, 2020 10:06 am
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Re: [Hand microtome] Have you tried razor scraper?

#2 Post by DonSchaeffer » Thu Dec 10, 2020 3:47 pm

I have something like that. It's called a finger knife. I use it all the time. My specimens don't come out nice even nut I can get some of down to one or two cell layers.

bobm4360
Posts: 12
Joined: Sun Oct 12, 2014 12:07 am

Re: [Hand microtome] Have you tried razor scraper?

#3 Post by bobm4360 » Fri Dec 11, 2020 5:21 am

If you're using single-edge blades, use the blades intended for shaving, not the industrial ones. Makes a difference!
Bob

MicroBob
Posts: 3154
Joined: Sun Dec 25, 2016 9:11 am
Location: Northern Germany

Re: [Hand microtome] Have you tried razor scraper?

#4 Post by MicroBob » Fri Dec 11, 2020 9:07 am

Hi Kevin,

I have developed a blade holder to use with a cylinder / hand microtome: viewtopic.php?f=16&t=7065&p=62601&hilit ... der#p62601
The blades have to be exceptionally sharp and from the ones I compared the blades by OLFA were by far the ones with the best initial sharpness. You need a slicing motion and it helps to wet the blade with 70% ethanol. When using a blade with bevels on both sides the inclination of the blade has to allow for the bevel angle so the bevel doesn't rub.

These scrapers might work fairly well if you find the right blades for them. Since the blade protrudes not that much the tepth of cut is limited as you have to fully slice through object and surrounding support carrot. Razor blades often are very sharp but too thin for anyting than very soft objects.

Bob

Post Reply