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

Centrifugation is an important step in many methods used to recover or analyze specific components in foods. It is also an essential step for preparation of materials to be incorporated into foods during processing. As a result, it is used by most researchers at some point and when working with food components, the large scale floor model centrifuges are commonly used. This application is to replace the two floor model centrifuges in the department as they no longer meet the safety standards for this type of centrifuge and are frequently in need of repair. The newer centrifuges have improved shielding for the high-speed rotors and no longer use CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) in the refrigeration system. One of the centrifuges requested is a BioSafe model that can be used for microbial culture research while minimizing the risk to those operating the centrifuge or in the vicinity of the centrifuge. This equipment will support a range of research projects that include general sample preparation, protein purification, recovery of bioactive components, numerous chemical assays and preparation of microbial cultures. These new centrifuges will provide a safer environment for students and staff, and will be less harmful on the environment. Modern centrifugation facilities are also essential for training of HQP (highly qualified personnel), and the requested equipment will allow students to be trained on equipment that is representative of facilities used in industry.