Figure 1.

Inclusion of wood samples in a stiff hydrogel matrix: the slices of xylem are inserted underwater in between two half-cured hydrogel slabs. (a) Schematic views of the inclusion after assembly and total curing of hydrogel slabs (dashes indicated the assembly). (b) Optical observations. Above, a cross-section cut performed with a scalpel clearly shows that the hydrogel is intimately bound to the wood. Intact channels are still in contact side by side. Below: top view of the wood inclusions. (Online version in colour.)