MRI/RUI: Acquisition of a Liquid Chromatograph Ion Trap Tandem Mass Spectrometer for Chemistry Research

Chapman University, Orange CA

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Physical Sciences at Chapman University will acquire a liquid chromatograph ion trap tandem mass spectrometer (LC/MS). This equipment will enhance research in a number of areas including a) structural characterization of dissolved organic matter in coastal waters; b) polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons size distribution in urban aerosols; c) carboxylic acids as sensitive indicators of biodegradation at petroleum-contaminated sites; and d) chemical tracers for anthropogenic inputs to urban runoff in a coastal watershed. Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (LC/MS) is an extremely powerful technique used for the separation and analysis of complex mixtures. This instrument will substantially strengthen scientific research at Chapman University, a primarily undergraduate institution. These studies will have a solid impact in the area of environmental sciences.