Histology FAQ
Staining, Histochemistry and Histotechnology
(Frequently Asked Questions)
Dr. John A. Kiernan
Department of Anatomy
and Cell Biology
The University of Western Ontario
London, Canada
Mold release spray
Question.
Is there something you can spray into an embedding mold to make it easier to extract the solidified wax block?
Answer.
I faced the problem of mold-release spray several years ago by mixing a solution of 5% green dishwashing soap (such as
Palmolive) in 50% Ethanol, then putting it into a pump spray bottle (available form any housewares department). This worked AT LEAST as well as the outrageously expensive stuff sold as "Mold-Release Spray", and it contained no CFC's or other "evils".
Joanne Lahey
Battelle Duxbury Operations
Duxbury, MA 02332
(laheyj[AT]battelle.org)