Vacuum compression molding

An apparatus for moulding a thermoplastic material into a homogenous sample body comprising: (a) a main body 110 comprising first opening 112 and second 114 openings and a hollow bore 116 adapted to receive a separation foil shaped to cover at least a part of the hollow bore surface; (b) a piston 120 adapted to fit moveably into the hollow bore; (c) a base plate 130 comprising a protrusion that, in use, extends into a part of the hollow bore containing the separation foil, and wherein the base plate is adapted to transfer heat from a heating unit to a thermoplastic material 150 resting on the protrusion; (d) a vacuum connector 142 adapted to be connected to a vacuum source; (e) a lid 140 adapted to fit moveably into the second opening and apply a force to the piston when the vacuum connector is connected to the vacuum source such that the piston applies a compressing force to the thermoplastic material (150) resting on the protrusion (132). There are further provided a method and a system for moulding a thermoplastic material into a homogenous sample body having a predetermined shape.