The use of HMDS (hexamethyldisilazane) to Replace Critical Point Drying (CPD) in the Preparation of Tardigrades for SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) Imaging

Abstract

HMDS (hexamethyldisilazane) may be used to replace the critical point drying step in sample preparation of tardigrades for SEM imaging. Previous procedures required a Critical Point Drying apparatus or machine to achieve the temperature/pressure combination to completely dehydrate a small specimen for SEM work. Now a simple bath in HMDS brings the specimens to the same state of dehydration without special equipment. Results are equal to the previous method.