Durcupan ACM Epoxy Embedding Kit

Araldite Base Embedding Agent for Electron Microscopy

Araldite casting resin M, hardener grade 964, accelerator grade 964, and dibutyl phthalate, the com-ponents required for the Araldite embedding procedures as described in the Literature are sold by us under the description Durcupan ACM.

Mixtures of Durcupan ACM present an interesting alternative to methacrylates for embedding sections for electron microscopy. They present the advantage that they harden uniformly, practically without shrinkage.

All fixing agents normally used for electron microscopic work are also suitable for the Durcupan ACM embedding process. This process consists of three phases: dehydration of the tissue with acetone or ethyl alcohol (1),. infiltration with the embedding agent, followed by hardening.

The following two resin mixtures have been found suitable in practice:

These two mixtures are preferably prepared at least 15 minutes before use, and kept during this period in the drying cupboard at 50°C (122°F), so that they are thoroughly mixed. Glass apparatus used for measuring and mixing should be placed in acetone or absolute ethyl alcohol immediately after use and cleaned.

(1) Durcupan ACM mixtures are not so easily soluble in ethyl alcohol as in acetone.
(2) This reduces the brittleness of the blocks and improves their cutting properties.

Caution

Take great care when working with Durcupan ACM: Do not breathe in the vapor and avoid skin con-tact, because this may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Splashes on the skin must be washed off immediately with a 3% boric acid solution. Frequent washing of hands, arms, and face with lukewarm soap water is advisable.

Retail Packages

Set packages:Durcupan ACM is sold in set packages for making 1 litre of embedding mixture.

Separate components:The four components can also be purchased separately. They are supplied only in bottles of 100ml each, so that they can be stored longer.