A Device for using Mercury Seals on Ground Joints in Horizontal or Inverted Positions

Abstract

WHILE working with Dr. Anderson's vacuum spark apparatus recently, I used mercury seals on certain ground glass joints, not all of which could be upright. It was found that, by turning the apparatus so that an inverted or horizontal joint became upright, and flowing over the mercury some fairly thick solution of celluloid or collodion in amyl acetate, the film so formed over the mercury adhered well to the glass when dry, and would hold the mercury in place whatever the position of the joint. The film should be rather thick, but it is very easily removed and is sufficiently elastic to stand ordinary handling of the apparatus without rupture or separation from the glass.