A solution for removal of resin from epoxy sections.

Development of a resin-dissolving solution for use at low alkali concentrations is described. Crown ether dissolved in dimethyl-sulfoxide produces a superbasic alkoxide anion. A five minute treatment resulted in complete resin removal from kidney biopsy specimens embedded in Epon 812. Specimens were well stained by Loeffler's methylene blue. Periodic acid-methenamine silver and Giemsa stains yielded good results. Application of PAS reaction and subsequent hematoxylin counterstaining was practicable for diagnosis.