Acquisition of a High-Sensitivity Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry System for Multi-disciplinary Research Projects and Education

Lamar University, Beaumont TX

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Proposal No. CTS-0320818 Principal Investigator: T. Ho, Lamar University Lamar University is a non-Ph.D. granting institution with a strong commitment to environmental research and education. Currently, research activities in several focused areas are being pursued, including characterization of outdoor/indoor particulate matter, development of microwave-enhanced technology for trace air pollutants destruction, chemical characterization of industrial sludge, super-porous titania-based photoreactor for environmental applications, and waste reduction in nanofiltration facilities. All of the activities require a high-sensitivity GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) to separate and identify the trace amount of volatile organic compounds (VOC). The requested GC/MS (gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) system is an Agilent (formerly Hewlett-Packard) Model 6890N GC interfaced with Agilent Model 5973 MS and coupled with a SIS (Scientific Instrument Services) Model 786000 Auto-Desorb System. The addition of this Auto-Desorb GC/MS system will significantly enhance our capabilities in conducting trace VOC-related research at Lamar University. This grant will enable installing a high-sensitivity GC/MS system at Lamar University to enhance capabilities in research and education in four different departments. It will also enhance services to the area K-12 students and efforts in recruiting potential students to science and engineering education.