A team from CEITEC Masaryk University (MUNI) in collaboration with researchers from two research institutes in Norway has, for the first time, captured how echovirus 18, a member of the enterovirus genus, releases its genetic material into cells to initiate infection. The study provides a structural view of an early stage of viral infection under near-native conditions. Using cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers discovered that the virus does not release its RNA through a small pore in its capsid, as had long been assumed. Instead, its protein shell partially disassembles, creating a large opening through which the viral genetic material escapes into the host cell. A detailed understanding of this genome release mechanism could eventually help develop compounds preventing enteroviruses from infecting cells.Enteroviruses are common human pathogens causing diseases ranging from the common cold and gastrointestinal infections to severe neurological disorders. Echovirus 18, the virus investigated in this study, is known primarily as a cause of meningitis and encephalitis in children. It belongs to the picornaviruses, a family of small, non-enveloped viruses whose genetic material is protected by a protein shell, the capsid, organized with icosahedral symmetry.To replicate within a cell, the enteroviruses must release their RNA – the molecule that carries viral genetic information – from the capsid, into the cell cytoplasm. Although this step is crucial for initiating infection, it has never been observed in infected cells.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_z_CEITEC_jako_prvni_zachytili_jak_enteroviry_spousteji_infekci_bunek_71d553bb0e.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Plevka Lab: CEITEC Scientists Are the First to Capture How Enteroviruses Initiate Infection: View into a cell infected by echovirus 18. Echovirus 18 is shown in green and yellow, ribosomes in violet, and actin filaments in cyan. Scale 50 nm. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_z_CEITEC_jako_prvni_zachytili_jak_enteroviry_spousteji_infekci_bunek_71d553bb0e.jpg 221w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1128">“For a long time, two main theories existed about how picornaviruses deliver their RNA genomes into cells. One proposed that the genome leaves the capsid through a small opening. The other, supported by earlier work from our laboratory, suggested that the genome escapes from partially disassembled capsids missing pentamers of capsid proteins. However, both models were based on experiments with virus particles outside cells. We wanted to go one step further and see what really happens during infection inside a cell,” says <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/liya-mukhamedova-ph-d/u89248?page=publication">Liya Mukhamedova</a>, the study’s first author from CEITEC MUNI.Using cryo-electron microscopy, which allows scientists to visualize biological structures at exceptionally high resolution, the researchers observed individual echovirus 18 particles directly within infected cells. They discovered that empty virus particles in infected cells lack parts of their capsids. It is through these openings that the virus releases its RNA.The study also revealed the role of the FcRn receptor, a cell-surface molecule that enteroviruses use to enter cells. The binding of the virus to the receptor triggers structural changes in the viral particle that prime it for subsequent genome release. The team showed that receptor binding causes the loss of the so-called pocket factor, a small molecule that normally helps stabilize the virus particle. The virus otherwise remains largely intact, suggesting that receptor binding is only the first step toward uncoating, while additional factors within the cell are required to complete the process and trigger genome release.“Infection is a complex process, during which enterovirus particles sense various interactions with cell components. The binding of echovirus 18 to the FcRn host-cell receptor triggers conformational changes in the virus, priming it for genome release.” – explains <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/pavel-plevka-ph-d/u26854">Pavel Plevka</a>, head of the Structural Virology Research Group.The researchers did not observe the so-called activated particles that are key intermediates in the enterovirus uncoating process. This suggests that genome release in cells occurs much faster than previous experiments had suggested.By combining structural data obtained from studies of virus particles outside living cells with observations of infected cells, the study offers a picture of how enterovirus infection begins. Moving beyond simplified experiments with isolated virus particles, it brings scientists closer to understanding the earliest stages of enterovirus infection as they occur in living cells. The study, was published in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2601182123">PNAS journal</a>.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Vedci_z_CEITEC_jako_prvni_zachytili_jak_enteroviry_spousteji_infekci_bunek_2_3601bf1df9.jpg" alt="CEITEC/Plevka Lab: CEITEC Scientists Are the First to Capture How Enteroviruses Initiate Infection: Reconstructions of E18 particles from infected cells. The particles are rainbow-colored based on the distance from the particle center. Scale 10 nm." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Vedci_z_CEITEC_jako_prvni_zachytili_jak_enteroviry_spousteji_infekci_bunek_2_3601bf1df9.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="906"><blockquote><h4>Article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2601182123">Particles of echovirus 18 open to release their genomes in vivo</a></h4>Liya Mukhamedova, David Buchta, Zuzana Trebichalská, Yevgen Levdansky, Jana Moravcová, David Potěšil, Zbyněk Zdráhal, Dominik Hřebík, Lucie Nepovímová, Torleif Tollefsrud Gjølberg, Jan Terje Andersen, Jiří Nováček, Tibor Füzik, and Pavel PlevkaProc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 2026, 123, e2601182123<div>&nbsp;</div><div><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2601182123">https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2601182123</a></div><h6>licenced under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote><h4>Abstract</h4>Enteroviruses cause a broad spectrum of human diseases, ranging from mild respiratory or gastrointestinal infections to severe neurological disorders such as aseptic meningitis and encephalitis. Enterovirus cell entry involves receptor-mediated endocytosis followed by destabilizing rearrangements of the virus capsid that enable genome release. However, the mechanism of enterovirus genome release has not been visualized in infected cells. Here, we used cryoelectron tomography and microscopy to image echovirus 18 (E18) entry into host cells and its interaction with the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). 30 min postinfection, endosomes and cytoplasm contained empty capsids missing one or several pentamers of capsid proteins, providing evidence that in vivo E18 releases its genome through capsid opening. In vitro, FcRn binding induced the expulsion of pocket factors from hydrophobic pockets in VP1, priming the virus for uncoating. The cryoelectron microscopy reconstruction of genome-containing particles of E18 inside infected cells did not reveal pocket factors, indicating that receptor binding triggers the same priming process during infection. We did not detect activated particles in infected cells, suggesting that these intermediates are short-lived and rapidly release their genomes in vivo. Our results identify capsid opening as the in vivo mechanism of echovirus 18 genome release, providing structural evidence for a process previously only inferred from in vitro experiments.

CEITEC Scientists Are the First to Capture How Enteroviruses Initiate Infection 

Gas chromatography (GC) is a powerful analytical technique used to separate and analyze compounds in a mixture. Whether you're working in pharmaceuticals, environmental testing, or food safety, understanding the key components of a gas chromatograph is essential for accurate and efficient results.In this article, we will delve into the primary components of gas chromatography, including the injector, column, detector, and carrier gas—and explain how each plays a critical role in the separation and analysis process.By mastering these elements, you can optimize your GC setup for precise and reliable outcomes. Let's explore each component in detail:<h3>Sample Injector</h3>The injector is the starting point in the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.phenomenex.com/techniques/gc">gas chromatography process</a>, where the sample is introduced into the system. In GC, the sample must be vaporized into a gas before it enters the column. The injector serves this purpose by heating the sample to its gaseous state. There are many types of injectors, Split/Splitless, PTV, on column.The most common injector is the Split/Splitless injector that can be used in split mode or in splitless mode:<ul><li>Split Injection: This mode allows a portion of the sample to be sent to the column while the remainder is vented. It is useful for high-concentration samples to prevent system overload.</li><li>Splitless Injection: In this mode, the entire sample is introduced into the column, making it ideal for trace analysis where even minute quantities need detection.</li></ul>Proper choice of injector type and proper control of injection conditions, such as temperature, sample size, injection mode are crucial for achieving reproducible and reliable results.<h3>Carrier Gas</h3>In gas chromatography, the mobile phase is represented by carrier gas, which transports the vaporized sample through the column. The carrier gas is an inert gas, such as helium, nitrogen, or hydrogen. The choice of carrier gas can influence the efficiency of the separation process.<ul><li>Helium is the most used carrier gas due to its inertness and high flow rate.</li><li>Hydrogen offers faster analysis times but requires careful handling due to its flammability.</li><li>Nitrogen provides a cheaper solution compared to Helium, although it's slower than helium or hydrogen.</li></ul>The flow rate and pressure of the carrier gas need to be carefully controlled to ensure that the sample moves smoothly through the system and adequate efficiency is generated.<h3>Column/Stationary Phase</h3>The column is the heart of the gas chromatograph, where the actual separation of compounds occurs. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/gcms/products?category=7&amp;manufacturerItems=50">GC columns</a> are typically long, thin tubes made from stainless steel or fused silica. They are coated with a stationary phase, which interacts with the components of the sample as they pass through.<ul><li>Packed Columns: These contain small particles of stationary phase material and generally have a larger volume. While they are less efficient than capillary columns, they can be suitable for specific applications.</li><li>Capillary Columns: These thin tubes are coated with a stationary phase, offering higher resolution and faster analysis times due to their smaller diameter.</li></ul>The length, diameter, and type of stationary phase of the column are important factors that affect the efficiency and selectivity of the separation. The choice of stationary phase (polar or non-polar; liquid-coated or solid) affects how different compounds interact with it.As the sample moves through the column, compounds separate based on volatility and their affinity for the stationary phase, resulting in distinct peaks in the chromatogram.<h3>Detector</h3>Once the sample has passed through the column, it reaches the detector, where individual components are identified and measured. There are several types of detectors, each suited to different applications:<ul><li>Flame Ionization Detector (FID): One of the most commonly used detectors in GC. It measures ions produced when organic compounds are burned in a hydrogen-air flame. FID is highly sensitive to a wide range of organic compounds and offers a broad linear dynamic range.</li><li>Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD): Detects changes in the thermal conductivity of the gas stream as analytes elute from the column. It is a universal, non-destructive detector, but is generally less sensitive than FID.</li><li>Electron capture detector (ECD): A very sensitive and selective detector used to detect chlorinated compounds it is easily contaminated and requires very pure and dry carrier and makeup gases and difficult maintenance.</li><li>Mass Spectrometer (MS): Provides structural information, aiding in both identification and quantification. Requires advanced and trained users and it’s difficult to maintain.</li></ul>The choice of detector depends on the type of analysis being performed and the sensitivity required. Each detector converts physical or chemical changes associated with the analytes into a measurable signal, producing a chromatogram that reflects concentration and retention time.<h3>Data System</h3>Although not a physical part of the chromatograph, the data system plays an integral role in processing and interpreting the signals generated by the detector. Modern gas chromatographs are equipped with software that converts detector signals into chromatograms—visual representations of the separation process. The software allows users to quantify and identify the components of the sample based on retention times and peak areas.<h3>How to Read a Gas Chromatogram?</h3>Interpreting a gas chromatogram involves understanding its essential elements, such as peaks, retention times, and the overall data for qualitative and quantitative analysis.<h4>The Nature of the Sample</h4>Begin by considering the sample's characteristics; different samples, such as environmental pollutants or food components, may exhibit distinct peak patterns. Recognizing the baseline (the flat line representing the signal without analytes) is crucial for identifying peaks accurately. While well-defined peaks indicate successful separation of components, poorly shaped or broad peaks may suggest issues with the separation process. For instance, if a mixture is injected and three peaks are observed, it indicates the presence of three different compounds in the sample. Conversely, when evaluating the purity of a sample, one would anticipate observing a single peak. Ideally, the chromatogram should reflect this expectation, confirming the sample's purity.<h4>The Identity of the Sample</h4>Retention time (Rt) is a critical factor in identifying the compounds present in the sample. Each analyte has a characteristic retention time that can be compared to known standards or literature. To confirm identities, a standard mixture should run alongside the sample; this allows to correlate retention times with specific compounds. If available, utilizing MS in conjunction with gas chromatography (GC-MS) can provide additional structural information, enhancing identification accuracy. With HR-MS or MS-MS detectors, unknown compounds can be identified by matching perfectly the Molecular weight or by matching the fragmentation pattern.<h4>The Amount of Sample</h4>Quantifying analytes involves analyzing peak area or height, which is directly proportional to the concentration of the analyte in the sample. A calibration curve constructed from known concentrations can help relate peak areas to actual concentrations. It is essential to consider the detector’s sensitivity and the limits of detection, as peaks below a certain threshold may not provide reliable quantification.

Basic Principles of Gas Chromatography - Separation and Analysis

ISC 2026 - Day 2

Article

Events

Academy

Science and research

Since its establishment in 2011, CEITEC has quickly developed into a cutting-edge infrastructure for research which performs highly alongside the best institutes in Europe. Among the main priorities of CEITEC are the promotion of a motivating and dynamic international scientific environment, the provision of state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and the policy of open communication and equal opportunities.

CEITEC

Phenomenex is a global technology leader committed to developing novel analytical chemistry solutions that solve the separation and purification challenges of researchers in industrial, government and academic laboratories.

Phenomenex

The International Symposium on Chromatography (ISC) represents the oldest conference series focussing on separation science. ISC symposia have been organised since 1956 in each even year. ISC is internationally recognised as one of the premier meeting series for discussion of all modes of chromatography and separation science with a broad coverage of techniques and applications.

International Symposium on Chromatography - (ISC)

Phenomenex Strata C18-U Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

C18 sorbent with no end-capping, giving the phase moderate hydrophobic selectivity with slight polar selectivity due to the active silanol groups.

Moderate Hydrophobic Selectivity Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)C18 sorbent with no end-capping, giving the phase moderate hydrophobic selectivity with slight polar selectivity due to the active silanol groups.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Strata_C18_U_f0c8e66506.webp" alt="Phenomenex: Strata C18-U SPE" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Strata_C18_U_f0c8e66506.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="500" height="150"><ul><li>Surface Area (m²/g): 500</li><li>Separation Mode: Reversed Phase</li><li>Pore Size: 70</li><li>Particle Size: 55</li><li>Recommended Use: Enhanced cleanup of hydrophobic compounds that contain hydroxy or amine functional groups</li></ul><h4>Starting Method</h4><h5>Strata Reversed Phase</h5><ul><li>Condition: 1 mL Methanol</li><li>Equilibrate: 1 mL DI Water</li><li>Load: Pretreated sample</li><li>Wash: 1 mL 5% Methanol in DI Water, dry under vacuum for 2-5 min</li><li>Elute: 1 mL Methanol</li></ul>Based on 100 mg/1 mL sorbent mass. The above is a convenient starting point for SPE method development, further optimization may be required to tailor the method for your specific extraction needs.

Phenomenex Strata C18-T Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

A wide-pore C18 sorbent that offers strong hydrophobic selectivity and accommodates molecules up to 75 kD in size.

Strong Hydrophobic Retention Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)A wide-pore C18 sorbent that offers strong hydrophobic selectivity and accommodates molecules up to 75 kD in size.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Strata_C18_T_294d3923f5.webp" alt="Phenomenex: Strata C18-T" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Strata_C18_T_294d3923f5.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="500" height="150"><ul><li>Surface Area (m²/g): -</li><li>Separation Mode: Reversed Phase</li><li>Particle Size: 55</li><li>Recommended Use: Wide pore for the extraction of large hydrophobic molecules (up to 75 kDa)</li></ul><h4>Starting Method</h4><h5>Strata Reversed Phase</h5><ul><li>Condition: 1 mL Methanol</li><li>Equilibrate: 1 mL DI Water</li><li>Load: Pretreated sample</li><li>Wash: 1 mL 5% Methanol in DI Water, dry under vacuum for 2-5 min</li><li>Elute: 1 mL Methanol</li></ul>Based on 100 mg/1 mL sorbent mass. The above is a convenient starting point for SPE method development, further optimization may be required to tailor the method for your specific extraction needs.

Phenomenex Strata C8 Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

An end-capped C8 sorbent that offers moderate hydrophobic retention with negligible secondary polar interactions from active silanol groups. 

Reversed Phase Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)An end-capped C8 sorbent that offers moderate hydrophobic retention with negligible secondary polar interactions from active silanol groups. &nbsp;Ideal for compounds that may interact too strongly with a C18 sorbent.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Strata_C8_9efc4274c5.webp" alt="Phenomenex: Strata C8" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Strata_C8_9efc4274c5.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="500" height="150"><ul><li>Surface Area (m²/g): -</li><li>Separation Mode: Reversed Phase</li><li>Particle Size: 25, 55</li><li>Recommended Use: Extraction of extremely hydrophobic compounds that are retained too tightly on C18-E.</li></ul><h4>Starting Method</h4><h5>Strata Reversed Phase</h5><ul><li>Condition: 1 mL Methanol</li><li>Equilibrate: 1 mL DI Water</li><li>Load: Pretreated sample</li><li>Wash: 1 mL 5% Methanol in DI Water, dry under vacuum for 2-5 min</li><li>Elute: 1 mL Methanol</li></ul>Based on 100 mg/1 mL sorbent mass. The above is a convenient starting point for SPE method development, further optimization may be required to tailor the method for your specific extraction needs.

Phenomenex Strata Phenyl Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

A short alkyl chain with a phenyl group provides moderate hydrophobic selectivity and aromatic selectivity through π−π interactions.

Retention of Aromatic CompoundsA short alkyl chain with a phenyl group provides moderate hydrophobic selectivity and aromatic selectivity through π−π interactions.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Strata_Phenyl_5bc4ec65e4.webp" alt="Phenomenex: Strata Phenyl" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Strata_Phenyl_5bc4ec65e4.webp 245w," sizes="100vw" width="500" height="150"><ul><li>Surface Area (m²/g): 500</li><li>Separation Mode: Reversed Phase</li><li>Pore size: 70</li><li>Particle Size: 55</li><li>Recommended Use: Extraction of aromatic and hydrophobic compounds</li></ul><h4>Starting Method</h4><h5>Strata Reversed Phase</h5><ul><li>Condition: 1 mL Methanol</li><li>Equilibrate: 1 mL DI Water</li><li>Load: Pretreated sample</li><li>Wash: 1 mL 5% Methanol in DI Water, dry under vacuum for 2-5 min</li><li>Elute: 1 mL Methanol</li></ul>Based on 100 mg/1 mL sorbent mass. The above is a convenient starting point for SPE method development, further optimization may be required to tailor the method for your specific extraction needs.

Phenomenex Strata SDB-L Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

A rugged polymer sorbent that is pH stable from 1-14 and offers hydrophobic and aromatic selectivity for reversed phase applications.

Styrene-Divinylbenzene Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) SorbentA rugged polymer sorbent that is pH stable from 1-14 and offers hydrophobic and aromatic selectivity for reversed phase applications.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Phenomenex_Strata_SDB_L_49e276aab1.jpg" alt="Phenomenex: Strata-SDB-L" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Phenomenex_Strata_SDB_L_49e276aab1.jpg 193w," sizes="100vw" width="208" height="168"><ul><li>Surface Area (m²/g): 500</li><li>Separation Mode: Reversed Phase</li><li>Pore size: 260</li><li>Particle Size: 100</li><li>Recommended Use: Extraction of hydrophobic and aromatic compounds</li></ul><h4>Starting Method</h4><h5>Strata Reversed Phase</h5><ul><li>Condition: 1 mL Methanol</li><li>Equilibrate: 1 mL DI Water</li><li>Load: Pretreated sample</li><li>Wash: 1 mL 5% Methanol in DI Water, dry under vacuum for 2-5 min</li><li>Elute: 1 mL Methanol</li></ul>Based on 100 mg/1 mL sorbent mass. The above is a convenient starting point for SPE method development, further optimization may be required to tailor the method for your specific extraction needs.

Phenomenex Strata Eco Screen Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)

This proprietary normal phase sorbent is topped with sodium sulfate to remove any excess water and is used for the extraction of hydrocarbons from environmental samples.

Specialty Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) SorbentThis proprietary normal phase sorbent is topped with sodium sulfate to remove any excess water and is used for the extraction of hydrocarbons from environmental samples, resulting in high recoveries of naphthalene.

LECO Tube Furnaces

LECO Cornerstone TF Tube Furnaces deliver high-temperature crucible baking up to 1350 °C, reducing contamination, improving carbon and sulfur accuracy, and cutting energy costs by up to 60%.

The LECO Cornerstone TF Tube Furnaces are versatile, energy-efficient resistance furnaces designed to bake crucibles and significantly reduce contaminants that can interfere with carbon and sulfur analytical results. Engineered for both high- and lower-volume laboratories, the TF series improves data accuracy, repeatability, and operating efficiency while reducing overall energy consumption.<h4>Key Features</h4><ul><li>Long-life molybdenum disilicide heating elements with an operating temperature range from 800 °C to 1350 °C</li><li>Integrated digital furnace controller displaying set point or actual temperature with built-in overtemperature protection</li><li>TF4 Quad Tube Furnace<ul><li>Six heating elements</li><li>Enables simultaneous baking of crucibles in four combustion tubes</li><li>Ideal for demanding, high-volume installations supporting two to four analytical units</li></ul></li><li>TF2 Dual Tube Furnace<ul><li>Four heating elements</li><li>Efficient solution for lower-volume laboratories supporting one to two systems</li></ul></li><li>Increased crucible capacity and optimized furnace design deliver up to 60% lower energy consumption compared to previous models, significantly reducing operating costs</li></ul><h4>Impact of Crucible Preheating on Analytical Results</h4>Preheating crucibles in the TF furnaces has a pronounced effect on carbon and sulfur accuracy. When 528-018 crucibles were baked at 1250 °C for 15 minutes, results for a high-purity iron reference material (certified at 5 ppm carbon and 2 ppm sulfur) showed dramatically improved accuracy and reduced variability.<ul><li>Baked crucibles produced results close to certified values with low standard deviation</li><li>Unbaked crucibles showed elevated carbon and sulfur levels</li><li>Baked but touched crucibles demonstrated significant contamination, highlighting the importance of proper handling after baking</li></ul>These results confirm that controlled crucible baking is essential for achieving low-level carbon and sulfur determinations with confidence.<h4>Energy Efficiency</h4>The redesigned TF furnaces use approximately 60% less energy than previous models. At continuous operation with a full crucible load and a furnace temperature of 1350 °C, operating cost comparisons clearly demonstrate substantial savings in power consumption, making the TF series both an analytical and economic advantage for modern laboratories.<h4>Models</h4><ul><li>TF4 – Quad Tube Furnace</li><li>TF2 – Dual Tube Furnace</li></ul>

LECO Cold Mounting Castable Mounts for Metallographic Sample Preparation

Cold mounting materials from LECO include polyester, acrylic, and epoxy resins designed for porous, brittle, or heat-sensitive samples, ensuring easy handling and excellent edge integrity.

Cold mounting—also known as castable mounting—is a metallographic sample preparation technique that uses liquid mounting media to fully encase a specimen. Common mounting materials include polyester, acrylic, and epoxy resins. After the sample is positioned in a mold, a catalyst is added to initiate curing and hardening of the mounting compound.This mounting approach is especially suitable for laboratories with lower throughput but a high diversity of samples. Cold mounting is often the preferred—or required—method for porous, brittle, irregularly shaped, or heat-sensitive specimens that cannot withstand the temperature and pressure of hot mounting. Once cured, the mounted samples are easier to handle during grinding, polishing, and analysis, while preserving edge integrity and microstructural features.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Zalevaci_kelimky_pro_pripravu_metalografickych_vzorku_2_b63c61bea7.jpg" alt="LECO: Cold Mounting Castable Mounts for Metallographic Sample Preparation" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Zalevaci_kelimky_pro_pripravu_metalografickych_vzorku_2_b63c61bea7.jpg 178w," sizes="100vw" width="884" height="776"><h4>Cold Mounting Media Options</h4>We offer a complete range of cold mounting materials to support different laboratory needs and sample types:<ul><li>Polyester Resins Polyesters are an economical solution for laboratories processing lower sample volumes and where edge retention is not a primary concern. They allow for fast and straightforward mounting and are well suited for routine applications requiring quick turnaround.</li><li>Acrylic Resins Acrylics cure faster than most other castable mounting materials and offer good abrasion resistance with fair edge retention. They are commonly used when multiple mounts are required and hot mounting is impractical. When used with a pressure chamber, such as the LECOMAT Pressure Vessel, acrylics can produce semi-clear mounts.</li><li>Epoxy Resins Epoxies provide hard, chemically resistant, and abrasion-resistant mounts with excellent edge retention. Although they generally require longer curing times, they offer superior flow characteristics and minimal shrinkage. Long-cure epoxies are ideal for challenging samples and can be vacuum-impregnated to remove trapped air and fill internal voids. Quick-cure epoxy formulations are also available, curing in less than one hour.</li></ul><h4>Available Products (Models)</h4><ul><li>Castolite – Polyester</li><li>LECOSET 7000 – Polyester</li><li>LECOSET 7008 – Acrylic</li><li>Quick-Cure Epoxies</li><li>Long-Cure Epoxies</li></ul><h4>Accessories and Options</h4><ul><li>Ring molds</li><li>Silicone rubber molds</li><li>Mold cups</li><li>General mounting supplies</li><li>LECOMAT Pressure Vessel for pressure impregnation and improved clarity</li></ul>

LECO DS20 Hand Grinder for Metallographic Polishing

The LECO DS20 is a compact, cost-effective benchtop hand grinder with sloped PVC platens, water flush, and integrated abrasive storage for efficient metallographic sample preparation.

The LECO DS20 Hand Grinder is a cost-effective, benchtop solution designed to simplify and streamline manual grinding during metallographic sample preparation. With a straightforward, durable design and practical workflow enhancements, the DS20 is ideal for laboratories seeking reliable surface preparation without unnecessary complexity.Engineered for ease of use and consistent results, the DS20 provides stable grinding surfaces, efficient debris removal, and integrated storage to support clean, repeatable operation in everyday lab environments.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_DS_20_Rucni_bruska_pro_metalograficke_lesteni_aa51980ffb.jpg" alt="LECO: DS20 Hand Grinder for Metallographic Polishing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_DS_20_Rucni_bruska_pro_metalograficke_lesteni_aa51980ffb.jpg 213w," sizes="100vw" width="1031" height="757"><h4>Key Features</h4><ul><li>Four sloped PVC platens providing flat, non-corroding, and well-drained grinding surfaces</li><li>Individual clamps and guides to keep abrasive paper flat during grinding</li><li>Built-in continuous water flush for effective removal of abrasive swarf</li><li>Closed storage compartment to keep abrasive rolls clean, dry, and readily accessible</li><li>Convenient abrasive paper roll system for fast changes</li><li>Supplied with silicon carbide abrasive rolls in 240, 320, 400, and 600 grit</li></ul>The DS20 is a practical choice for laboratories that value simplicity, reliability, and efficiency in manual grinding applications.

LECO BG Series Belt Grinder for Metallographic Sample Polishing

The LECO BG Series belt grinders provide durable, safe, and flexible wet or dry grinding for metallographic and spectrographic sample preparation in single- or dual-belt configurations.

The BG Series belt grinders are designed to deliver durable, safe, and convenient grinding performance for metallographic and spectrographic sample preparation. Available in both single-belt and dual-belt configurations, the BG Series supports efficient material removal while maintaining operator safety and consistent results.By combining the grinder with an optional dust collector or a recirculating system, the BG Series can be configured for either dry or wet grinding, making it a flexible solution for a wide range of laboratory workflows. Its robust construction and straightforward operation make it well suited for routine use in production, quality control, and research laboratories.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_BG_Pasova_bruska_pro_lesteni_metalografickych_vzorku_5_adfd9793f2.jpg" alt="LECO: BG Series Belt Grinder for Metallographic Sample Polishing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_BG_Pasova_bruska_pro_lesteni_metalografickych_vzorku_5_adfd9793f2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1303" height="691"><h4>Key Features</h4><ul><li>Heavy-duty 1 HP (0.75 kW) motor for reliable and consistent grinding performance</li><li>Enclosed belt tension mechanism that prevents belt slippage and improves coolant and debris drainage</li><li>Integrated safety guards to maximize operator protection during operation</li><li>Corrosion-resistant aluminum external surfaces for long service life in laboratory environments</li></ul><h4>Available Models</h4><ul><li>BG30 – Single belt drive configuration</li><li>BG32 – Dual belt drive configuration</li></ul>

Products focused on Sample Preparation - page 5

Related content

ISC 2026 - Day 2

Basic Principles of Gas Chromatography - Separation and Analysis

CEITEC Scientists Are the First to Capture How Enteroviruses Initiate Infection