Ultra-microtomy

The sample surfaces as received can either be dipped directly into the etchant solution, or the fresh surface for etching can be prepared by microtomy (or ultra-microtomy). The etching period may range from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the nature of the material under investigation and the concentration of the etchant. 

Sectioning problems, collection, and troubleshooting are all described by Reid [115]. For example, artifacts have been observed in ultra-microtomy of liquid crystal polymers, when compared with x-ray diffraction, due to compression that modified the structure of the polymer [163]. The oscillating diamond knife, discussed earlier, is also intended to reduce compression of ultrathin sections [118]. The list in Table 4.2 is not complete but is intended to provide insight into the cause and potential remedy of sectioning problems [164]. 

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been used in orthopaedic prosthetic surgery for many years due to its excellent mechanical properties and frictional resistance. A large number of studies on both retrieved prostheses and raw material have, however, been necessary in order to understand and prevent degradation of the prostheses. The shape of the prostheses and the compression moulded blocks from which they are cut is usually not suitable for examination. In a number of studies microtomy has therefore been used in order to produce pieces suitable for further studies [112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120]. However, very often when microtomy is used, it is without any consideration of the fact that the process... 

Depth profile obtained by small spot XPS and ultra-low angle microtomy at the interface region of a PVdF coating applied to a polyurethane primer (Reproduced from Hinder and Watts (2004), with permission]... 

Hinder SJ, Lowe C, Maxted JT, Watts JF (2005) The morphology and topography of polymer surfaces and interfaces exposed by ultra-low-angle microtomy. J Mater Sci 40 285... 

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