The microtome is used for preparing samples for
transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy
(AFM). In general, TEM samples must be less than 100 nm thick and AFM
requires a flat, smooth surface.
It uses a knife of diamond or glass to make cuts
of 100
nm or less. Samples are embedded in epoxy to hold them and are cut
using knives of diamond or glass.
