Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The aim of this proposal is to purchase a versatile, multifunctional and in situ Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) vibrational spectroscopy system that is capable of identifying organic and inorganic materials, and providing specific information on molecular structure, chemical bonding, and local environments. The requested equipment integrates seven major functions: i) Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR, wide range includes far, mid and near-IR), ii) built-in diamond attenuated total reflection (ATR) FTIR, iii) fast scan resolution, iv) in situ (photo)electrochemical cell, v) time-resolved mapping, vi) temperature control chamber with vacuum options, and vii) atmosphere control with different gas environments. This unique equipment, which will be installed at the INRS-EMT, is very useful for the analysis of the reaction intermediates and pathways, the reaction mechanism, the nature of active species, and the dynamic behavior of the materials under working conditions, in energy, environmental and biomedical applications. This requested equipment is URGENTLY needed for the following seven reasons. (i) Over 67% (29 out of 43) of the faculty members at INRS-energy, materials and telecommunications (EMT) center are actively working on various research programs related to materials science, energy, environment and biomedical applications, and the requested equipment is CRITICAL to their research programs.. (ii) The old FTIR equipment at INRS-EMT stopped functioning completely in 2020. Currently, there is no FTIR equipment at the EMT center. (iii) All the FTIR characterizations at the EMT center are being conducted externally, which is time- and cost-consuming. Moreover, we experience difficulty in transporting samples, especially those with specific characteristics. (iv) The requested equipment is able to connect with other NSERC-supported facilities at EMT, forming a comprehensive system to support NSERC-funded research in the natural sciences and engineering. (v) The requested equipment has the advantages of addressing the challenges presented by the conventional FTIR, as it is a unique combination of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and mapping, capable of conducting in-situ time- and temperature-resolved characterizations on a single instrument. (vi) This equipment is essential to support INRS-EMT's various research programs in the areas of high socio-economic importance to Canada. (vii) The acquisition of this equipment will add an important component to the training of the HQP. We estimate a minimum of 48 HQP/year will use the requested equipment for the advancement of their MSc/Ph.D./postdoc projects. The EDI in the rationale of the composition of teams and trainees have been well considered and the team will continue to hire candidates from all origins and genders, especially the underrepresented groups, and encourage an open-minded, respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace.