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The BIODURŪ PEM polymers are duromers with reactive epoxidic groups that emulgate during curing and cause
specimens to appear bright and opaque. The various available PEM polymers differ in their brightness after curing,
as well as in their firmness. Therefore, they also differ in their applications:
BIODURŪ PEM 11 (PM11)
Has a long processing time. Notch resistant after curing,
but softer than other PEM products. Has roughly the
same x-ray density as water and, therefore, is primarily
used to prepare specimens for radiographic scientific
purposes.
BIODURŪ PEM 27 (PM27)
Can be used with hardeners E 1 and E 6. The standard
combination of PEM 27/E 1 has the best optical and
mechanical properties of all PEM polymers in terms of
whiteness and firmness. However, the processing time
for this polymer is only 2 days.
BIODURŪ PEM 27 is primarily used in the plastination
of thick, non-transparent slices of extremities and
trunks, up to a thickness of 3 cm (1.2 in). Due to
its optical properties, it is also well suited for the
preservation of stones. PEM 27/E 6 is suitable for thick
histological sections. It is relatively soft and easy to cut.
The polymerized emulsion can be removed from the
dissection specimen by means of a solution of sodium
methylate in absolute methanol.
PEM polymers tend to crystallize and their
phases tend to separate. To overcome this
problem, heat to +50°C to +60°C (+120 °F to
+140 °F) prior to use.
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2 cm thick trunk slice, plastinated with PEM 27/E 1
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