Glycol methacrylate (GMA), otherwise known as 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, is the embedment of choice for both TEM and LM applications, particularly for hydrated specimens with sensitive "antigenic sites". The GMA monomer is water white, has a viscosity that is actually slightly less than water, and will infiltrate easier than any other resin or monomer. It is especially popular with those working on bone, cartilage, and difficult-to-infiltrate plant tissue.
The SPI-Chem Brand GMA monomer is supplied with the methacrylic acid originally present substantially removed but with small amounts of inhibitors present, to inhibit spontaneous polymerization during synthesis and storage. This inhibitor need not be removed before use. The benzoyl peroxide catalyst as supplied is provided in granular form.
