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Chamberlain’s Fluid

Chamberlain’s Fluid

Formula

MaterialAmount
Chromium trioxide1g
Acetic acid, glacial2mL
Water90mL
Osmium tetroxide, 1% aqueous8mL

Description

Dissolve the chromium trioxide in the water, then add the acetic acid. Just before use add the osmium tetroxide.

This is a modification of Flemming’s strong fluid. It is used for cytological preservation, chromosomes particularly. As with all of these osmium tetroxide containing fluids, the tissue should be 2 mm or so thick, no more.

Time

Pieces less than 2 millimeters should be fixed within 24 hours.

Aftertreatment

Wash in running tap water overnight.

Note that these solutions do not store well, and enough should be made for a few days only.

Safety Note

Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.

References

  1. Davenport, H.A., (1960),
    Histological and histochemical techniques,
    W. B. Saunders Co., London, UK., Oxford, UK.