| Acetolyse the
filter paper in standard acetolysis mixture (9 parts
acetic anhydride and 1 part concentrated sulphuric acid)
in a beaker, heating in a water bath for 2 minutes.
Follow this with an acetic acid rinse, a water rinse and
5 minutes warming in 5-10% KOH (or NaOH) in a water. For
centrifuged samples treat first with the KOH (or NaOH)
and follow this with the acetolysis procedure, acetic
acid and water rinses. Mineral material, if present,
should be removed with HF or, in the case of coarse sand,
by decanting. Staining and mounting should follow the
established process of the laboratory in question. |