MRI: Acquisition of Trace Metal Analysis Instrumentation

Northern Michigan University, Marquette MI

Investigators

Abstract

The Chemistry Department at Northern Michigan University will acquire a cold vapor mercury analyzer and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES), a high pressure liquid chromatograph, a microwave digestion system and related sampling equipment with this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program. This will facilitate various research projects on environmental topics including 1) monitoring surface water quality and bioaccumulation studies of metals associated with sulfide mining activity; 2) toxicity studies of metal ions involved in magnetic resonance imaging agents; 3) measuring the ability of polydimethylsiloxane compounds (PDMSs) to aid in the transport of metals through cell membranes; 4) monitoring iron ore chemistry to improve iron recoveries during mining processes; 5) studying mercury toxicity by mercury speciation analysis in fish and other aquatic life from Deer Lake; and 6) quantifying and comparing metallothionein levels in crayfish living in low and high metal content environments. A cold vapor mercury analyzer and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES) is used for multi-elemental metal analysis at trace levels (ng/L) for environmental, biological, industrial, forensic, geological, and toxicology studies. It is used in analysis labs across the world. Approximately 50 undergraduate or graduate students per year will be trained in ICP-OES techniques through course work and research projects. The equipment will enhance the institution''s ability to serve as a resource for regional businesses, organizations, and other institutions.