High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) system performing block-face imaging on a 15 mm embedded tissue sample, capturing micron-resolution images after each microtome cut.

Block Face Imaging for 3D Data

Optical High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy Use Cases and Block Face Imaging for 3D Imaging

Block Face Imaging Overview

Block face imaging is an often overlooked technique which allows for imaging at the sectioning plane where in most cases we remove the section and look at it. Imaging at the block face offers slice-to-slice alignment, which can be easily placed into 3D packages.

What is Block Face Imaging?

In block-face imaging, a blade removes a thin slice (typically 1–5 µm) from a resin embedded sample block. After each cut, the freshly exposed surface (“block face”) is immediately imaged by an objective and digital sensor. By repeating this cut then image cycle, you generate a perfectly registered stack of 2D sections, with no slide mounting or post alignment required. This direct “slice-and-shoot” workflow preserves native tissue geometry, making true 3D quantitation of volumes, surfaces and morphologies straightforward.

Why HREM Systems for Block-Face Imaging?

Dedicated Acquisition Software

Our custom software simplifies system control and data management, including automatic file handling, metadata tagging, and batch processing. It supports multiple camera types, from high-sensitivity detectors for low-fluorescence samples to large-format sensors for broader field-of-view imaging.

Sample Flexibility for Bone and Density

HREM systems are customised for difficult, denser samples, such as mineralised bone, fixed tissue and plant matter. Ideal where light-sheet or confocal imaging struggles.

Modular Optical Configurations

We offer a flexible range of optics as standard, including zoom optics or fixed upright objectives. You can adapt the system to your specific needs, whether prioritising speed, resolution, or field of view. Illumination modules (epifluorescence, transmitted, or oblique) are easily interchangeable.

Automation & High-Quality Sectioning

Fully automated image/slice cycles reduce user intervention and improve reproducibility. Our system integrates auto-focus, precision microtome control, and customisable slice thickness (1–5 µm), ensuring consistent image sharpness and clean cuts across long runs.

Precision Scanning Stages

Our motorised XY scanning stages support tiled imaging with micron repeatability, enabling high-resolution imaging over large sample areas. This allows you to maintain high voxel resolution (1–8 µm) across volumes up to 20 mm³ or more.

Block Face Imaging HREM Unique Technique

Ideal for Dense or Opaque Samples

Unlike light-sheet or confocal microscopy, HREM does not need optical transparency. It is well-suited for dense tissues like bone, fibrotic tissue, or resin-embedded specimens, where light penetration is limited.

Higher Throughput Than EM

While electron microscopy provides nanometre resolution, it’s typically limited to small volumes and requires extensive sample prep. HREM offers micron-scale resolution over much larger volumes (1–20 mm), and at a fraction of the cost both in equipment and labour.

Alternative to Light-Sheet Microscopy

Light-sheet microscopy is a close comparison in terms of resolution but often requires time-consuming tissue clearing. Clearing can also cause sample shrinkage or signal loss. HREM avoids this entirely but note, it is a destructive technique, as slices are physically removed after each image.