Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

A new, state-of-the-art, research-grade Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) detector is urgently needed to replace an obsolete and slow-responding model that fails to meet the growing research and training needs at Carleton University. The EDS detector is complementary to our scanning electron microscopy (SEM), allowing quantification of the elemental composition and surface mapping of samples using X-ray spectra generated by electron beam bombardment on a sample's surface. The upgrade to an Oxford Advanced AZtechLive EDS detector will significantly enhance compositional analysis, allowing a wider range of specimens to be examined with greater ease and accuracy than currently possible. The EDS detector will be housed at the Nano Imaging Facility (NIF) at Carleton University where it will be accessible to an array of users with a vision of ensuring an inclusive, equitable and diverse environment. In addition to the research team which is comprised of multiple units across Science and Engineering Faculties at Carleton, this new equipment will support the research and training of more than 100 highly qualified personnel (HQP), at the undergraduate and graduate level, within 2 years of implementation with access at similar or higher numbers over the next decade. User groups from nearby universities, governmental agencies and private industries will gain ready access to the detector through the NIF lab ensuring broad level access to this state-of-the-art equipment. HQPs trained in utilizing the EDS equipment will gain desirable skills to meet the demands of academia and industry. The proposed EDS detector can carry out high-speed, high-resolution compositional analysis and mapping at nanometer scales. The low-energy detecting ability of this new tool will allow for the study of organic-materials, a feature which is currently not possible with the existing system, expanding the research capabilities of existing and new users at Carleton's Nano Imaging Facility. A drift-correction function on the new unit will eliminate interference from surrounding vibrations or electromagnetism which currently requires frequent system recalibration. These advances will achieve high quality elemental detection and imaging with minimal specimen preparation. Finally, the significantly enhanced capabilities will benefit diverse users in the Faculties of Science and Engineering, ensuring research competitiveness while simultaneously training the next generation of scientists and engineers in the natural sciences and engineering fields.