Collecting, Cleaning, Mounting, and Photographing Diatoms

Abstract

This chapter describes techniques used by diatomists to clean and mount diatoms successfully. The techniques involve the use of extremely hazardous chemicals that are a serious threat to one’s health and physical safety, including strong mineral acids that can cause severe skin burns or blindness after brief contact with the skin or eyes; sodium hydroxide, a strong base which can dissolve human tissue; strong oxidizing agents which can cause severe chemical burns; and organic solvents known to be carcinogenic, which can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. The information presented here is to explain to the reader how diatomists process diatoms, but should not be considered to be suggestions, instructions, or directions for the reader. The reader is specifically warned not to perform any action with hazardous chemicals unless they have proper equipment to protect themselves. They should also have personal instruction and supervision from an experienced teacher who is present physically and able to supervise their actions, provide guidance, and to assume liability. Even when meeting these conditions, no diatom cleaning technique should be undertaken without precautions: wearing heavy, acid-resistant clothing and gloves; using head, face, and eye protection against chemical splashes; processing diatoms in the protection of a fume hood; and having materials nearby which can rapidly neutralize any spilled acids or bases, with readily- accessible first aid equipment for potential injuries. Any work with organic solvents should only be done with adequate ventilation and with vigorous attempts to minimize contact with the skin with the liquid solvent, and to minimize inhalation of solvent vapors. A reader taking any actions with hazardous chemicals will do so at their own risk, and will take full personal responsibility and liability for their own actions. The Author, the Editors, and Springer and its employees will not be responsible for any injuries, accidents, illnesses, or damages that might arise from the reader’s use of chemicals described here.