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

Microscopy and imaging play a vital role in virtually all contemporary engineering fields. The proposal which follows continues this trend through the use of high- and low- resolution microscopes in civil/environmental, mechanical, and electrical engineering disciplines. The specific engineering pursuits of interest to this research proposal relate to the: 1. Micro-Optical Engineering Program - Dr. Holzman's electrical engineering research program centres on the development of micron-scale and nanometer-scale integrated all-optical switches for high-speed telecommunication switching and integrated optical processing applications, 2. Study of Micro-Droplets in Gas Diffusion Layers (GDLs) to Improve Water Management in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cells - Dr. Hoorfar's research here focuses on the local interfacial properties of micro-droplets in GDLs and their critical role in the successful operation of fuel cells, and 3. Biological Treatment Processes for Application to Extreme Environments - Dr. Roberts' microbiology research relates to biological processes in high salt solutions and their application to water and soil treatment. At the heart of each of these endeavors is the ability to inspect, characterize, and monitor devices, samples, and specimens on a micron-scale. The high- and low- resolution microscopes introduced in this proposal will allow these microscopy applications to continue and succeed.