Session

2024 Poster Session

Location

Salt Lake Community College Westpointe Campus, Salt Lake City, UT

Start Date

5-6-2024 9:55 AM

Description

This study investigates the best method to prepare animal hair samples for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The main objective is to identify the most effective method to clean, cut, and position the hair to achieve a better image of the hair without external elements. Various cleaning methods were explored, but the best option was a 15-minute sonication in water followed by a 24-hour immersion in a 90% ethanol-10% methanol mixture. Samples were placed with different types of glue to ensure the hair remained stable. A diamond blade was used to cut the hairs but did not provide the desired results when compared to scissors or a regular blade. In conclusion, this study provides information about the meticulous preparation of animal hair samples for SEM.

Available for download on Tuesday, July 01, 2025

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May 6th, 9:55 AM

Optimization of Animal Hair Preparation for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

Salt Lake Community College Westpointe Campus, Salt Lake City, UT

This study investigates the best method to prepare animal hair samples for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The main objective is to identify the most effective method to clean, cut, and position the hair to achieve a better image of the hair without external elements. Various cleaning methods were explored, but the best option was a 15-minute sonication in water followed by a 24-hour immersion in a 90% ethanol-10% methanol mixture. Samples were placed with different types of glue to ensure the hair remained stable. A diamond blade was used to cut the hairs but did not provide the desired results when compared to scissors or a regular blade. In conclusion, this study provides information about the meticulous preparation of animal hair samples for SEM.