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

A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is one of the most versatile tools used in materials analysis, characterization, and imaging. Research in materials, interfaces, electrocatalysis, photovoltaics, metallic foams, analytical devices and corrosion conducted in seven (7) chemistry laboratories at Queen's requires daily used of an SEM. It does not exist in our Department and an existing SEM for campus-wide usage is over twenty-years old, often malfunctions, and offers limited capabilities. The requested SEM is user-friendly and will serve both routine and specialized analyses. It will be used to analyze a variety of samples, such as: (i) nickel foams used in rechargeable batteries and alkaline fuel cells; (ii) electrochemically formed colored layers on Ti and Zr that serve as protective and decorative coatings; (iii) Pt single crystals used in electrocatalysis research; (iv) morphological changes in solid materials caused by laser ablation; (v) microscopic fiber-optical devices used to detect E-coli in potable waters; (vi) porous materials used in electrochemical degradation of soluble pollutants and conversion of glycerol into value-added chemicals; (vii) nano-structured copolymers having unique architectures and hydrophobic properties; (viii) micro-fabricated waveguide-based optical sensors and resonators; (ix) plasmonic and fullerene nanoscopic materials for application in organic light emitting diodes (OLED) and polymer solar cells; and (x) miniaturized chemical analysis and micro-fluidic devices. The SEM will add a new dimension to our on-going research efforts and will expand the existing infrastructure used to study materials and nanoscopic systems, thus strengthening nano-science and nano-technology research thrusts at Queen's. It will boost several NSERC and industry-supported projects and enhance our chances of securing additional research funding. It is an ideal research tool that will be used by over thirty (30) HQP, who will gain hands-on experience in modern metrology and imaging techniques. Its capabilities will be expanded in subsequent years by adding EDS capabilities. The unique experience and transferable skills acquired through the SEM use will enhance their knowledge of modern materials science techniques.