FSML Request for a Gas Chromatographic Interface for Compound-Specific Isotopic Analyses at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute

University Of Texas At Austin, Austin TX

Investigators

Abstract

This award provides funds for the purchase of a gas chromatography interface and related equipment. The interface will extend the capabilities of an existing isotope ratio mass spectrometer to allow compound-specific, stable isotopic analyses to be performed. The instrument will add near state of-the-art analytical capabilities extremely useful in the scientific fields in which the Marine Science Institute has its greatest strengths. The PI and his colleagues will develop new measurement techniques specifically tailored to critical problems facing the Gulf of Mexico region. These types of experiments can be accomplished with much greater specificity and control with this new equipment than with the bulk isotopic analyses that existing equipment allows. The use of compound-specific analyses has begun to revolutionize the fields of ecology, environmental science and oceanography by allowing specific measurement of the uptake and transfer of biochemicals into marine food webs, elucidation of degradation pathways, and source identification of environmental pollutants. The extremely small samples needed for the gas chromatography interface make it ideal for analysis of limiting or trace biochemicals in fisheries and other ecological studies. The addition of this equipment will create a central light isotope analysis facility that will make available new and exciting capabilities for scientists throughout the south-central Texas region.