MRI:Acquisition and incorporation of Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy into undergraduate research instruction and environmental research in the Upper Great Lakes region

Lake Superior State University, Sault Sainte Marie MI

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Chemistry at Lake Superior State University will acquire an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer. This equipment will be used for research on environmental issues of the Upper Great Lakes region; as a tool for undergraduates working on environmental research projects as part of their senior thesis; to introduce modern mass spectrophotometric techniques to the undergraduate curriculum; and to support faculty and community partnering on environmental projects. Specific projects include establishment of a long-term monitoring program for trace metals in the Lake Superior Watershed, including an emphasis on changes in isotopic ratios for key elements such as lead; and the analysis of sediments and biota for trace metals in the St. Marys River Area of Concern. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a technique used to probe intimate structural details and to obtain the molecular compositions of a vast array of organic, bioorganic, and organometallic molecules. The results from these studies will have an impact in the area of environmental chemistry and public health.