Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

We urgently need to replace failing Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) equipment that is critical to analyze novel polymers that are produced in the applicants' laboratories.  GPC is the most important method used in both industry and academic labs to evaluate the molecular weight (a measure of size) of polymeric samples. Many important properties of polymers, such as their physical and mechanical properties, are dependent on the molecular weight. It also serves as a useful measure of the success of a polymerization reaction where monomers are converted to polymers. Thus, every single polymerization experiment performed in a synthetic polymer laboratory requires an analysis of the final product by GPC. The current instrumentation is relied upon by the groups of the three co-applicants (> 30 HQP) along with several other academic users both within and outside the department and industry users. Due to the PI's expertise in the characterization of inorganic and organometallic polymers, he often runs samples for other groups across Canada.  The current instrumentation in our Polymer Characterization Facility contains failing components that are 10 years old and will no longer be supported by the vendor. The proposed acquisition will result in a state-of-the-art GPC facility containing the latest technology for molecular weight determination. A delay in acquiring this equipment will cause the NSERC-funded research in the synthesis of novel functional polymers to grind to a halt if and when the existing equipment fails. Without continuous access to GPC, it will not be possible to publish our work in: (i) the development of functional phosphorus-containing polymers with unique emissive properties, (ii) the synthesis of novel biodegradable plastics, and (iii) the development of aminated polymers with remarkable adhesive and anti-corrosive properties. Given that GPC is a method critical to polymer industry, hands-on experience with this instrumentation forms a critical component in the training of HQP in our collective laboratories. In addition, this experience is easily transferrable to the analysis of large biological molecules. Thus, the skills obtained using this equipment is applicable to a wide range of careers in government, industry or academia in Canada.