[Histonet] breaking glass jar/vials for MMA embedded specimens

[Cathy Mayton]

Yes, the scintillation vials are notorious for shattering in the freezer.  However, if you put them in a plastic container with a lid on, the shattered glass will be contained and not all over your freezer.  When breaking larger glass containers, again place them in the freezer, remove from the freezer after 20 minutes or so, take the lid off, wrap jar in paper towels and hold the ends closed.  Wear glovesand eye protection in case shards of glass escape.  Strike the jar with a hammer and unroll the paper towel over a garbage can.  Rinse the block in tap water to remove any small shards of glass.  This is a great way to vent frustration!!

Cathy A. Mayton
Wasatch Histo Consultants, Inc.