We can supply a range of transparent environmental chambers to attach to many brands of microscopes. Prolonged studies of living cells, including time lapse image capture experiments for cell motility and cell death, may be carried out at elevated temperatures. Micro manipulation of living cells can also take place in this temperature controlled environment.

Warm, filtered air circulates within the acrylic chamber from a heater unit which is mechanically isolated from the environmental chamber. This ensures that there is no transmission of vibration from the heater fan to the microscope. Users may select temperatures within the range of 32°C to 42°C. An optional warm stage enhances temperature control.

Two doors allow specimens to be changed and the condenser settings to be adjusted, a further two doors, below the stage, allow access to the nosepiece and objectives. Focusing and stage controls remain outside the environmental chamber. The capabilities of the microscope are unaffected. Filter wheels, motorised stages, micro-manipulators and auto focusing accessories can also be accommodated. The chamber can, when required, be quickly removed without the use of hand tools.

CO2 Enrichment

A CO2 enriched environment extends the life of the growth medium during prolonged experiments. A precision needle valve controls the flow of CO2 or CO2 mixture through a water reservoir. This both humidifies the gas and gives a simple, visual indication of flow. The supply of water can be topped up during prolonged experiments. Tools are provided to simplify the gas feed through a sterile filter and a luer needle into the chamber.

Temperature Logging

The temperature(s) registered by platinum foil sensors located in the environmental chamber and the optional warm stage may be logged for the duration of the experiment.