| CPC F25D 3/10 (2013.01) [F25D 29/001 (2013.01); G01N 1/42 (2013.01)] | 18 Claims |
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1. A method of preparing a cryogenic sample, whereby the sample is subjected to rapid cooling using a cryogen, comprising the following steps:
providing a sample on a substantially planar sample carrier;
providing two conduits for transporting cryogenic fluid, each of which conduits opens out into a mouthpiece, wherein:
each of the mouthpieces are arranged to face each other across an intervening gap;
at least one of said mouthpieces comprises at least two nozzle openings; and
said conduits are arranged in a plunger, and wherein:
said plunger is surrounded by at least one seal element for preventing cryogenic fluid to leak when downwards pressure is applied on the plunger, and wherein optionally:
said plunger is surrounded by at least one further seal element that is positioned at a distance from said at least one seal element, wherein said plunger and said at least one further seal element are arranged for removing excessive cryogenic fluid from said plunger after submerging said plunger;
placing the sample carrier with said sample in said gap; and
pumping cryogenic fluid through said conduits so as to concurrently flush from said mouthpieces, thereby suddenly immersing the sample in cryogenic fluid from two opposite sides, wherein the at least two nozzles are configured to evenly cool said substantially planar sample carrier during said flushing.
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