ecolog:
We are looking into tissue grinders to homogenize a range of plant and
animal tissues for nutrient & isotope analyses. We know of strong
alternatives for single samples on the low cost end of the scale
(below), but we are interested in units that can simultaneously process
multiple samples of variable mass (mg to g). Preferably, small samples
could be homogenized and stored in the same vials, to avoid the extra
time and error associated with subsampling, transfer loss, and frequent
cleaning.
Single sample mills, in the range of $800-$1200:
Analytical Mill (Cole-Parmer, 04301-00)
ShakIR (Pike, 161-1070)
Wig-l-bug (ICL, 0013-7357)
For example, the Retsch Ball Mill MM301 will do everything we need (up
to 20 samples at a time), but it is on the high end for cost ($8-10K,
plus accessories). We would welcome testimonials about ball mills or
other equipment that you've used and would recommend, particularly those
that split the difference in cost.
Please reply to me and I will compile a summary.
Dan Gruner
--
Daniel S. Gruner, Assistant Professor
Department of Entomology
4112 Plant Sciences Bldg
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742 U.S.A.
(o) 301-405-3957 (f) 301-314-9290
[email protected]
http://grunerlab.umd.edu