Fused Quartz Coverslip No2: Uses and Handling Tips
By UQG Optics | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn practical uses for a No2 fused quartz coverslip and get step-by-step handling tips to avoid scratches and breakage in microscopy and spectroscopy.
Quick Answer
A No2 fused quartz coverslip (0.20 mm thick) suits applications needing UV transparency and low autofluorescence, but handling it safely requires clean tools and a gentle touch.
Why Choose a No2 Thickness?
The No2 coverslip thickness (0.20 mm) offers a balance between mechanical strength and optical performance. It is thicker than No1.5 (0.17 mm), making it less fragile during handling, but it still works with most microscope objectives that correct for coverslip thickness.
If you work with high-magnification oil-immersion objectives, verify that your objective is rated for a 0.20 mm coverslip. Using the wrong thickness can introduce spherical aberration and blur your images.
Key Applications for Fused Quartz Coverslips
Fused quartz coverslips are useful when you need transmission into the deep UV range, where standard glass absorbs light. Common uses include UV spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and photolithography experiments.
Because fused quartz has low autofluorescence, it is also a good choice for fluorescence imaging where background noise can obscure weak signals. However, fused quartz is more expensive than standard glass, so reserve it for applications that genuinely need its optical properties.
Step-by-Step Handling and Use Guide
- Clean your work area and tools: Wipe your bench with lint-free wipes and use clean tweezers or a vacuum pen. Dust and oils from your fingers can leave residues that are hard to remove later. Always handle coverslips with clean tools, never bare fingers.
- Pick up the coverslip by the edge: Grip the coverslip gently along its edge with tweezers. Avoid touching the center surface where your sample will sit. Fused quartz is brittle, so apply even pressure and avoid twisting. If the coverslip slips, do not try to catch it mid-air; let it fall and inspect for chips.
- Check for defects before use: Hold the coverslip up to a light source and look for cracks, chips, or scratches. Even a tiny flaw can affect imaging or break during handling. Discard any coverslip with visible damage to avoid contaminating your sample or damaging your objective.
- Place the coverslip on your sample: Lower it slowly at an angle to avoid trapping air bubbles. For live-cell imaging, use a spacer or sealant to prevent crushing the sample. If you see bubbles, gently tap the coverslip with a blunt tool to dislodge them, but do not press hard.
- Clean after use with the right method: Use a solvent-safe method: rinse with acetone or isopropanol, then wipe with a lint-free tissue. Avoid abrasive cleaners and ultrasonic baths unless you know the coverslip is free of coatings. Never reuse a coverslip if it has been in contact with biological samples or corrosive chemicals.
Product Facts
- Fused Quartz Coverslip #No2: The Fused Quartz Coverslip #No2 has a thickness of 0.20 mm and dimensions of 25 x 25 mm. This size fits standard microscope slides and the thickness is compatible with many objectives, making it a versatile choice for routine UV and fluorescence work.
Fused Quartz Coverslip #No2
