-300 mesh nickel grids work well. Copper also works.
(150 mesh for sections, 400 mesh for small molecules)
-Identify shiny & dull side. Always use same side for sample.
-With dull edge of razor put slight saddle into grid for ease of manipulation
-Pick plastic to use. Parloidion, Collodian or Formvar. Formvar gives stronger film, use when not carbon coating.
-Make a 1% to 2% solution of Parloidion in Amyl Acetate (PAA)
-Dip clean glass slide into PAA solution in fume hood. Allow to dry.
-Score 4 sides with forceps so plastic will release off slide
-Slowly, at an angle, immerse slide into water. Plastic should float.
-Film should look gray, without any interference colors. If it is too thick, dilute PAA solution with more amyl acetate and start over.
-Place grid shiny side down on floating sheet of Parloidion. Insure
good contact by pushing grid down with forceps.
-Scoop up grids on plastic with flat 50 mesh screen or slide.
-Carbon Coat. See Carbon coating protocol for details.