Canada Balsom For Microscopy
Description
Canada balsam for microscopy is a natural oleoresin from the balsam fir tree (Abies balsamea), used as a permanent mounting medium for microscope slides due to its refractive index (n=1.52–1.53) matching glass.
Composition and properties
It is a viscous, pale yellow to colorless liquid (often supplied in xylene or solvent) that dries to a transparent, amorphous solid with excellent optical clarity, low birefringence, and stability for long-term specimen preservation.
Preparation and use
Specimens are dehydrated (e.g., with xylene), a drop of Canada balsam is placed on the slide, and a coverslip is applied; it requires 1–2 weeks to fully harden at room temperature, sealing samples from air and moisture.
Advantages over synthetics
Traditional choice for histology, cytology, and geology thin sections due to durability (slides last centuries); modern synthetic media are faster-drying but Canada balsam remains preferred for high-end, archival preparations.
Specifications
| Model No. | N-CH1535 |
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