The DiATOME ultrasonic oscillating diamond knife is used for room temperature ultramicrotomy.
- Knife angle: 35°
- Knife cutting range: 10 – 80 nm
- Knife cutting edge length: 3.0 mm
- Frequency: 25 – 45 kHz, or automatic setting of the resonance
- Amplitude: variable (Voltage 0 – 30 V)
- Mains voltage: 230 V, 110 V
A piezo actuator produces an oscillation of the knife at a desired frequency and amplitude, parallel with the cutting edge. A depression in the foot of the knife allows the oscillation parallel to the cutting edge. The depression is rigid in the north/south direction and guarantees stability in the cutting direction. The new knife produces ultrathin sections almost free of compression. The sections become thinner at the same thickness setting: since the volume of the section remains the same, the increased length leads to a decrease in thickness. We have tested the oscillating knife with Biological samples in Epon, Araldite, EM Bed, etc., biological samples in acrylic resins (Lowicryls, LR White), and rigid polymers such as PS, PMMA, ABS, HIPS, modified PP, etc.
