MRI (RUI): Acquisition of a GC Ion Trap Tandem Mass Spectrometer for Research in Environmental Chemistry

Chapman University, Orange CA

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Environmental and Chemical Sciences at Chapman College will acquire a gas chromatograph ion trap tandem mass spectrometer (GCMS). This equipment will enhance research in a number of areas including a) studies of emission rates and mechanisms of stratospheric ozone-depleting halogenated compounds from wetland plants; b) the photochemical reactions of polyaromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) pollutants in surface waters; and c) a collaborative study using chemical tracers as indicators for anthropogenic sewage inputs to watershed run-off. Faculty will conduct a joint ongoing study of non-point pollution sources in a local salt marsh. This study will be integrated into four laboratory courses for research training in GCMS techniques through student group projects. Gas chromatograph with mass spectrometric detection (GCMS) is an extremely powerful technique used for the separation and analysis of complex mixtures. This instrument will substantially strengthen scientific research in Environmental Sciences at Chapman University.