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Uranyl acetate (UA) in solution is used as a fixation and staining agent for biological samples in
electron microscopy. The light elements of biological structures in most cases do not provide enough
contrast for the analysis in an electron microscope. The heavy metal ions of uranyl acetate get
attached to biological structures and therefore increase their density. Heavy atoms are more likely to
scatter and absorb electrons, which is used to increase the contrast between different structures in
the sample.
The uranyl acetate salt that is dissolved in water or an organic solvent for the staining of organic
material mainly contains the isotope U-238. This uranium isotope releases alpha particles during
decay. This type of radiation can be shielded easily for example already by skin. Uranium salts are not
classified as reprotoxic or carcinogenic.
You are registered at ZMB and trained to use the ZMB wet labs. Note: It is not allowed for users to give
a training to other users.
You are trained for radioactive work by the radio safety officer. The training is documented, and you
will have to sign the document. Only registered and trained users and staff are allowed to work at the
radioactive workplace. It is not allowed to work with uranyl acetate when pregnant or breastfeeding.
Users are responsible to check if needed consumables and solutions are available before their
experiment. They inform ZMB staff, if something is missing, or needs to be restocked.
The ZMB provides uranyl acetate solution in water and methanol or ethanol in small aliquots. It is not
allowed to work with UA-powder outside of the C-lab (access for staff ZMB only).
Do only use dedicated tools (pipettes) for the work with uranyl acetate and do not use these for other
work.
Only work with uranyl acetate in the labelled area.
Reduce consumption of staining solution as much as possible.
Blot off all excess UA liquid with filter paper and dispose it in the radioactive solid waste container.
Contaminated material has to be disposed in the radioactive solid waste container.
Write down your name, date and the amount of staining solution that you used.
Any contamination or accident has to be reported to ZMB staff.
