Skip to content Skip to navigation

Article: Removing gold coating from SEM samples

Publication: Palaeontology
Volume: 50
Part: 6
Publication Date: November 2007
Page(s): 1459 1461
Author(s): Stephen A. Leslie and John C. Mitchell
Addition Information

How to Cite

LESLIE, S. A., MITCHELL, J. C. 2007. Removing gold coating from SEM samples. Palaeontology50, 6, 1459–1461.

Online Version Hosted By

Wiley Online Library
Get Article: Wiley Online Library [Pay-to-View Access] |

Abstract

An essential tool in micropalaeontological studies is analysis and imaging using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). It is commonly necessary to coat the sample with a thin layer of gold or gold-palladium alloy in order to prevent charging of the surface, to promote the emission of secondary electrons so that the specimen conducts evenly, and to provide a homogeneous surface for analysis and imaging. However, coating a specimen with gold is a semi-destructive process that masks the surface of specimens, and a common curatorial practice is to prohibit coating of important specimens. We describe a non-destructive, simple and inexpensive technique that uses KCN (or NaCN), a glass jar, paper towels, cardboard and a fume hood for the removal of gold coatings from SEM samples. This technique requires little additional handling of the specimen, and there is no need to place the specimen in a solution.
PalAss Go! URL: http://go.palass.org/59b | Twitter: Share on Twitter | Facebook: Share on Facebook | Google+: Share on Google+