Manual plunge freezer
Merit Badge 7
Category: Sample preparation
Sub-category: Cryogenic work
Plunge freezing and instrument certification for the manual plunge freezer.
Theoretical background
Knowledge of the instrument
Safety
Specific safety SOPs for this merit badge.
• NCCAT SOP for work with ethane for plunge freezing
For general safety information see the SOPs in the right bar.
Relevant SDS (Safety Data Sheets)
• Airgas-SDS-LN2-001188
• Airgas-SDS-Ethane-001024
Vendor product information
• N/A
Theoretical knowledge
Overview of vitrification for high resolution imaging
Center specific guidelines
• N/A
Knowledge test
A pass/fail test
The knowledge assessment test is a shared test between centers and may be updated regularly. If a user has earned the merit badge and policies have been updated, then an updated information sheet would have to be reviewed ahead of booking an instrumentation session.
Demonstration
Center staff training
The instrument demonstration should be scheduled with center staff through the NCCAT User Office or your appointed user coordinator.
Practice
Supervised and unsupervised practice by the user
Center staff will assist in arranging dedicated time slots for access to the necessary equipment. Registered users will be issued scheduler accounts through the NCCAT User Office.
Practical test
Two (2) separate center staff observing your proficiency at separate times
Center staff will assist in arranging dedicated time slots for access to the necessary equipment. Registered users will be issued scheduler accounts through the NCCAT User Office.
Additional information
Recertification period
- Sample preparation merit badges for cryogenic work are valid for ~6mo.
- Recertification (to maintain active status) would entail demonstrating proper use and care in front of a center staff member.
General NYSBC/NCCAT safety SOPs
Furthering your knowledge
General background on plunge freezing