Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Mass spectrometers possess unparalleled performance for the identification of chemical and biochemical species, in complex samples, at extremely low concentrations. This proposal describes the combination of a revolutionary mass spectrometric sampling interface commercialized by the industrial partner SCIEX, with fiber fabrication techniques at Université Laval and advanced coatings and machining techniques developed at Queen's University. Queen's and Laval have a strong record of materials-based research and its use for chemical sensing, and SCIEX a 40 year history of bringing Canadian University intellectual property to market for mass spectrometry applications. Superhydrophobic and biomimetic materials obtain their novel water loving/fearing, and sorptive characteristics through a combination of both chemical make-up and micro-nano structure. This proposal will develop advanced manufacturing methods to prepare these materials to aid in mass spectrometric sample preparation where for example large arrays of samples (e.g. fluids such as saliva, urine, blood, spinal fluid) can be created and stored as sub-microliter (<0.00000001 L) droplets or dried spots. Thousands of droplets can be "arrayed" in only a matter of seconds. The rapid sample preparation is well suited to the novel mass spectrometric interface (open port probe), a university technology licensed by SCIEX that is able to inject and analyze droplets at speeds as fast as 5 samples per second! The project leverages > $30 million in University and Governmental (Federal and Provincial) investment at Queen's University and Laval. Although this project has a specific aim to combine and develop MS sample preparation and imaging, the organizations believe this is the beginning of larger relationship between SCIEX, Laval and Queen's University concerning mass spectrometric technology development. HQP will benefit considerably through training at SCIEX, and both academic institutions on state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment and analytical instrumentation. The training will position the students as future leaders and innovators which will continue to propel Canada to the forefront of advanced manufacturing and analytical measurement.