MRI-RUI: Acquisition of a scanning-electron microscope for multidisciplinary research in physical sciences at California State University Northridge

The University Corporation, Northridge, Northridge CA

Investigators

Abstract

0216133 Pedone With support through the Major Research Instrumentation Program, the imaging and analytical capabilities of a scanning-electron-microscope equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray analytical system and a cathodoluminescence-imaging system will be applied to a wide range of natural and synthetic materials in the physical sciences at California State University Northridge (CSUN). Initial research use of this instrumentation will include the study of biotic and abiotic formation of lacustrine carbonate sediment and rocks; diagenesis of siliceous and siliciclastic deep-sea sediment; the identification of volcanic, carbonate, and carbonaceous phases for radiometric dating; the provenance of volcanic rocks in support of tectonic reconstruction in southern California; and the physical properties of metals, semiconductor and dielectric thin films. Acquisition of a research-quality SEM-EDS will allow faculty to expand existing research programs and to explore new avenues of collaborative research. It also will enhance recruitment of high-quality graduate and undergraduate students to the physical sciences at CSUN and provide them with first-rate research training to assure their success in future academic study and professional careers. ***