Sample Preparation
01 RMC Ultramicrotome
A precision slicing tool used to cut ultra-thin sections of materials for TEM or SEM analysis. Supports both biological and material samples. Ideal for high-resolution imaging prep.
Manufacturer: RMC
Model: Ultramicrotome
Availability: Internal & External Use
Usage & Fees:
- Assisted Use: $47/hr (Internal), $78/hr (External)
- Independent Use: $11/hr (Internal), $23/hr (External)
Equipment Location: Grigg 147
Training Required: Yes (for non-assisted use)

02 RMC Cryo-ultramicrotome
Used for cryogenic sectioning of soft and temperature-sensitive materials. Enables ultra-thin slicing while preserving structure through sub-zero processing.
Manufacturer: RMC
Model: Cryo-ultramicrotome
Availability: Internal & External Uses
Usage & Fees:
- Assisted Use: $49/hr (Internal), $86/hr (External)
- Independent Use: $13/hr (Internal), $31/hr (External))
Equipment Location: Grigg 147
Training Required: Yes (for non-assisted use)

03 Gatan Precision Ion Polishing System (PIPS)
Removes surface damage and prepares electron-transparent samples for TEM analysis through ion milling. Allows precise thinning with minimal artifacts.
Manufacturer: Gatan
Model: PIPS
Availability: Internal & External Uses
Usage & Fees:
- Assisted Use: $45/hr (Internal), $79/hr (External)
- Independent Use: $9/hr (Internal), $24/hr (External)
Equipment Location: Grigg 147
Training Required: Yes (for non-assisted use)
04 Gatan Prep Station
A prep bench supporting pre-processing tasks for PIPS or BioWave. Suitable for cleaning, mounting, and handling of samples under controlled conditions.
Manufacturer: Gatan
Model: Prep Station
Availability: Internal & External Uses
Usage & Fees: $8.94/hr (Internal), $24/hr (External)
Equipment Location: Grigg 147

05 PELCO BioWave Pro
Advanced microwave tissue processor for faster and more efficient biological sample fixation and staining. Ideal for TEM or SEM sample prep.
Manufacturer: PELCO
Model: BioWave Pro
Availability: Internal & External Uses
Usage & Fees: $36.5/hr (Internal), $57/hr (External)
Equipment Location: Grigg 147

Contact:
Dr. Youxing Chen
Phone: 704-687-1985
Email: ychen103@charlotte.edu
Office: Duke 103