Sectioning Coated Specimens Without Edge Rounding

New method devised for preparation of cross sections of coated specimens for scanning electron microscopy or energy-dispersive analysis without rounding edges of coatings. After cutting and polishing, specimen section remains smooth and flat so it can be examined under high magnification out to edge of coating. Sectioned blade first electroplated with hard nickel 0.003 in., then encapsulated in two layers of material: soft conductive material at bottom and 0.25 in. of hard diallyl phthalate at top. Nickel plate provides electrical path from surface of section to conductive material below.