Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

This application describes the need to have a multi-mode optical microscope (MDIM) capable of economizing the image acquisition and analysis from varied specimens in the merging areas of biomaterials and physical metallurgy within the context of materials and chemical engineering. An additional need is the ability to perform types of imaging required in each of the sub disciplines simultaneously on the same specimens. Optical microscopy, and in particular quantitative optical microscopy and imaging, is increasingly important as the first stage of materials characterization in the laboratory. The addition of optical microscopes to the laboratory reduces costly electron microscope investigations that offer little over optical techniques if the investigation is done properly. The field of optical microscopy is becoming more powerful for quantification of submicron structures with additions of new features such as 3D surface reconstruction software, motorization and automation, high resolution optics and digital cameras, and image analysis software. Unfortunately, the research grade compound microscope available for general use in the Chemical and Materials Department does not have a complete complement of imaging modes, nor can it obtain high enough quality images for detailed and complicated quantitative analysis that is required for the research projects undertaken by the applicants. The MDIM will permit quantification of environmental reactions and materials behaviour while also training students and research associates in imaging and quantitative optical microscopy, a skill-set that is often lacking in University education. The multi-mode microscope will be placed on an anti-vibration table (purchased separately by the applicants) and tethered to a computer workstation loaded with microscope control and image analysis software. Imaging modes include bright and dark field, differential interference contrast, polarization and fluorescence.