Preparation of Aerosols for Electron Microscopy

Abstract

A technique is described whereby fall-out particles from dust clouds, commonly called aerosols, may be prepared for observation with the electron microscope. Specimens are collected by means of various types of precipitators on molecular filters which are made from cellulose esters. During the process of dissolving this material in acetone, the particles adhering to the filter are transferred to the Formvar-coated specimen screens of the electron microscope. Losses are negligible, residual filter background is eliminated, and particles are clearly visible for measuring.