Poststaining Grids for Transmission Electron Microscopy

Poststaining ultrathin sections on grids is an essential process in preparing specimens for examination using transmission electron microscopy. This process commonly consists of staining in aqueous solutions of uranyl acetate followed by lead citrate and can result in good consistent quality staining if certain precautions are taken. This chapter covers conventional and alternative methods for poststaining ultrathin sections, including microwave-assisted procedures and corrective measures when problems are encountered.