Grant: Major Facilities Access Grants

The Queen's Facility for Isotope Research (QFIR) at Queen's University is among the most versatile and well-integrated research facility of its kind in Canada.  It is used by a multitude of researchers to solve both basic and applied problems in a variety of fields.  Research using these facilities involves tracing the distribution of isotopes of both major and trace elements in well-characterised materials for studies ranging from the evolution of the oceans and giant ore deposits to deciphering paleoenvironments.  The facilities consist of (1) Ar-Ar geochronology labs, (2) high-resolution ICPMS (Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer) instrumentation for isotope tracing and chemical analysis, (3) three continuous-flow isotope-ratio mass spectrometers and peripherals, (4) a time-of-flight ICPMS for the chemical analysis of single fluid inclusions and biofilms, (5) a quadrupole ICPMS for technique development, (6) stable isotope extraction facilities and (7) a multi-collector ICPMS for geochronology and metal isotope tracing.  The Ar geochronology lab uses both state-of-the-art furnace and laser extraction systems to determine important parameters such as Ar diffusion rates in minerals as well as the time at which specific phases closed to diffusion of Ar.  Three of the ICPMS instruments have UV-laser ablation systems for direct sampling of isotopes (some for geochronology) from solid materials.  The high resolution ICPMS instruments minimise the interferences typical of other ICPMS instruments and enhance sensitivity for some elements in solids and solutions.  The stable-isotope lab includes three mass-spectrometers and continuous-flow technology for the analysis H, C, N, O, and S isotopes in almost any material, including an on-line UV laser-extraction system capable of in situ analysis of solid materials.  The spectrum of instruments in these facilities is unique in Canada, and reflects our commitment to develop novel micro-analytical techniques. Funding is requested to partially defray critical maintenance costs and for partial support of key personnel needed to maintain, improve and ensure continuity of the facility.