Glærur

Glærur are thin rectangular pieces of glass used to mount specimens for microscopic observation. In Icelandic usage, glærur refers to glass microscope slides, the standard platform for preparing and examining samples in biology, medicine, and material science. They work in conjunction with cover slips and mounting media to enable light to pass through a specimen for imaging.

There are several common types of slides. Plain glass slides are the default choice for many procedures. Frosted slides have a rough, labeled edge to make writing on the slide easier. Charged slides have a chemically treated surface that improves adhesion of tissues or cells. Depression or well slides include small wells to hold liquids, useful for samples in liquid form or limited volume.

Standard size and materials. Most laboratory slides measure about 25 by 75 millimeters and are about 0.95 to 1.2 millimeters thick. They are usually made from soda-lime glass, though higher-grade borosilicate glass may be used for high-temperature applications. Cover slips, the thin glass covers placed over the specimen, are typically around 0.13 to 0.17 millimeters thick.

Preparation and use. A specimen is placed on the slide with a mounting medium such as water, glycerol, or resin, and then sealed with a cover slip. Staining is commonly employed to increase contrast and reveal cellular structures. Prior to mounting, specimens may be fixed to preserve morphology.

Care and safety. Slides should be cleaned gently with soap and water or alcohol and stored in labeled slide boxes to prevent damage. They are fragile and can break into sharp shards, so handling requires care and appropriate disposal of broken glass.