The Process
Step 1
Fixation
Formalin is injected into the arterial system of the body to chemically stop decomposition and kill all bacteria.
Step 2
Dissection
For Silicone Plastinates, the skin, fatty and connective tissues are removed to prepare the individual anatomical structures. Sheet Plastinates are sliced, (see Step 5).
Step 3
Dehydration
Body fluids, (water and soluble fat) are replaced with acetone.
Step 4
Silicone or Polymer Infusion
The acetone-soaked specimen is placed into a silicone or polymer bath under vacuum pressure. As the acetone evaporates it is replaced by silicone rubber or polymer.
Step 5
Positioning or Slicing
Silicone Plastinates are positioned using needles, clamps, strings to reveal structures. Sheet Plastinates are encased in foam and mechanically sliced according to the desired pane and thickness.
Step 6
Curing
After all structures are finally in place, silicone specimens are cured using gas, a catalyst. Sheet Plastinates are cured using heat.
Our quality cannot be rushed
Our specimens are prepared to order resulting in unmatched quality. The lead time is 12-18 months, allowing for each step of the process to be properly applied. While other providers may supply specimens in a quicker timeframe, we can assure you, with more than 40 years of experience that reduced time will always result in inferior quality. High quality plastination provides clear definition between body tissues and structures and retains original morphology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is your lifetime maintenance service?
All specimens are created to last indefinitely but depending on the type and frequency of use, may show signs wear or damage. As part of our aftersales service, we offer an at-cost repair and refresh maintenance service. Please contact us or your sales representative for more information.
What is the difference between Sheet Plastinates (HS) and Anatomy Glass (HG)?
Sheet Plastinates are made from real human tissue and each slice is unique. Anatomy Glass are durable high-resolution acrylic reproductions of Sheet Plastinates that contain no human tissue. Sheet Plastinates provide the highest levels of resolution and detail, whereas Anatomy Glass show good levels of detail and can be used by anyone, anywhere.
Where does the human tissue used in von Hagens Plastination specimens come from?
von Hagens Plastination exclusively uses human tissue derived from body donors that have donated their body for plastination for anatomical and healthcare education. All donations are made in life under full and informed consent. The body donation program is managed by the Institute for Plastination and is subject to independent audit.
How long will plastinated specimens last?
With proper handling and maintenance, plastinated specimens (HP & HS) will last indefinitely. The same is true of all our products, including Bones (HB), Anatomy Glass (HG) and Casts (HC).
Are Plastinates commonly used in anatomy-related education?
Yes. Numerous education institutions around the world, representing tens of thousands of learners, use Plastinates from von Hagens Plastination (vHP). Due to their high quality, and widely acceptable appearance, Plastinates from vHP are also used in international museums to educate the public about health and human anatomy.
How much do specimens cost?
For pricing information, please build your collection on our website and submit it to us. Alternatively, qualified users can create an online vHP Account to see pricing information next to each specimen.
How do I clean my Silicone Plastinates?
Cleaning guides and maintenance instructions can be accessed via the online vHP Account area. For further information, please contact us or your sales representative.