Mounting test materials is vital to preserve samples and make them easier to handle. There are two types of mounting techniques: compression mounting and castable mounting. Choosing which technique is dependent on the size and shape of the part, the susceptibility to pressure or heat and the desired throughput.
Compression mounting is used for the best edge preservation and highest throughput while castable mounting is preferred when pressure and heat cannot be used to mount parts. Epoxy mounting systems are characterized by low shrinkage, good filtration and good physical adherence. Acrylic mounting are characterized by short cure times.