LIBS

Profilometer

The profilometer allows for the observation and analysis of surface profiles of samples. A 3-dimensional profile can be created showing the topology and surface structure to micron accuracy. It is also possible to peer through transparent samples to view their internal structure. 

Microdroplet Dispenser

Microdroplets exhibit novel chemistry compared to bulk solution for a variety of factors, most of which are a result of the increased air-water interface and surface-to-volume ratio. This unique chemistry can be applied to Origins of Life research, as unique reactions in microdroplets can contribute to the immense chemical diversity present on the prebiotic Earth. The microdroplet dispenser dispenses microdroplets of a constant diameter and volume, allowing microdroplet experiments to be replicable.

Q-Exactive Mass Spectrometer

This mass spectrometer allows us to identify the species in a solution based on their masses as detected by an orbitrap electrode. An electrospray ionization (ESI) source is mounted to the inlet to ionize the molecules within a sample. Q-exactive mass specs, and especially orbitrap detectors, have a very high resolving power allowing for greater precision in sample measurements. 

Stable Isotope Laboratory

Elementar ISOTOPE-Select Elemental Analyzer:

Our Elemental Analyzer (EA) is used to detect and analyze C,H,N, and S  within a sample. This process is accomplished by combusting samples and passing them through reducing and oxidizing columns to yield their gaseous species. Gas streams are flowed into two detectors; a Thermal Conductivity Detector (TCD) and an Isotope-Ratio Mass Spectrometer (IRMS). 

TCD

The TCD is a non-destructive method for obtaining the quantity of CO2 or N2 produced from a sample. This detector measures the change in thermal conductivity as a sample gas passes by thermistors. The gas is then free to flow directly into an IRMS 

Micromass Isoprime IRMS

Our IRMS instrument intakes the flow gas from the TCD. This instrument allows us to measure the masses of the different species passing through it. Species are ionized and guided via magnetic field to the detector. 

Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer:

Pictured below is our Pfeifer RGA standalone gas source quadrupole mass spectrometer. This instrument is connected to custom built crushing apparatuses, allowing for the extraction and analysis of volatiles trapped within minerals. Of particular interest is the evaluation of the gasses trapped within fluid inclusions prevalent in these minerals. This method allows for the bulk analysis of many fluid inclusions within a single sample The system is kept under high vacuum to ensure only the contents of each crush are measured. 

Linkam TH600 Micro Thermometry Stage:

This instrument is used to perform micro thermometry on fluid inclusions, enabling us to gather data on the conditions of formation for various minerals. By looking at phase changes that occur as the mineral is cycled through high and low temperatures, we can gather data on the bulk fluid the mineral precipitated out of. This can lead to the determination of the temperature and pressure of formation, as well as the salinity and composition of the original fluid. 

Isoprime 100 Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer:

This dual inlet mass spectrometer is paired with a multiprep peripheral system for the analysis of δ13C and δ18O in carbonates and water samples. The instrument includes two 10-collector arrays allowing for the measurements of CO2 isotopologues and air bound to minerals. This instrument is primarily used for the isotopic analysis of carbon and oxygen within various carbonates.

ROMAN Lab

Bruker Senterra Raman Microscope Spectrometer: 

Our Raman instrument operates with a 785 nm or 532 nm laser source. The stage incorporates x-y-z automated controls, allowing for spectra to be obtained in three dimensions. This enables an efficient and spatially selective method of collecting spectra. The Raman system has proven to be very valuable for rapid grain identification.