Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

We are making a case for a high resolution electron microscope imaging system with ultra variable pressure capability to accurately measure local cracks, defects, and surface integrity in new and emerging materials without contamination by coatings, which is untenable with any other available equipment. The proposed equipment is the only commercially-available, real time imaging system that offers high performance, advanced 3D measurements, surface reconstruction capabilities, intuitive operation, compact design, and low environmental impact at a very competitive price.******The requested equipment is urgently needed to support the research programs of six applicants from three different Canadian universities, namely Ryerson University, University of Waterloo, and Ontario Tech. The principal investigators (PIs) are conducting high impact research with the aim to accelerating the development and adoption of new and emerging sustainable polymers and composites into next generation antimicrobial medical devices, automotive, and aircraft. The PIs' multidisciplinary research programs require extensive multi-scale characterization and modelling, where assessing structure, surface integrity, processing parameters, mechanical properties, as well as progressive failure modes at different scales remains extremely challenging. The proposed multipurpose imaging system is crucial to tackle these challenges, and advance the PIs' respective research programs. This equipment will be coupled with an advanced 3D stereo digital image correlation and a Lock-in infrared thermography system to create a unique and comprehensive state-of-the-art characterization tool, which will significantly enhance the applicants' infrastructure capabilities. ******The acquisition of the proposed imaging system will not only boost new collaborations, but also enable the translation of the PIs' research programs into innovative technological solutions, which will immediately benefit Canadian industrial partners. Key benefits, include the development of new sustainable manufacturing platforms, and advanced renewable materials with improved performance. Moreover, the experimental component of the PIs' respective research programs will provide a unique opportunity for 45 High Qualified Personnel (HQP) to be trained on the requested system. It will also provide them with both hand-on experience and deep understanding of the multifaceted relationship between material structure, processing, and performance of various materials. These highly sought-after skills are desired in the advanced materials and manufacturing sector, and will be valuable for HQP to secure high quality engineering jobs. The requested system will be made available to graduate students and research associates of all research groups (both internal and external) from academia, hospitals, and industry. **