Acquisition of a Raman Spectrometer for the Characterization of High-Energy-Density Materials
Abstract
The University of Southern California (USC) is requesting a grant for the purchase of crucial spectroscopy equipment desperately needed for the characterization of environmental-friendly High-Energy Density Materials (HEDMs). When synthesizing novel compounds, it is imperative to establish their composition and purity, and characterize them. HEDM compounds contain large amounts of energy, which can be released in response to certain stimuli. Therefore, any characterization of such materials is very challenging and has to be done in a save way that does not trigger an explosive decomposition. Raman spectra are an important tool for the characterization of HEDM compounds because they are highly characteristic and can be recorded at sub-ambient temperatures directly in the reaction vessels. Although USC has very good facilities for HEDM research, our aging Raman equipment is failing and needs urgent attention. We already submitted a DURIP proposal for a new Raman setup in 2013, which was not funded. The total estimated cost of a state-of-the-art Raman spectrometer that is capable of collecting spectra at low-temperature is $190,850 and precludes the purchase either under the ongoing USC HEDM programs (two ONR and one DTRA synthesis program) or under USC funding. The availability of this equipment is crucial not only for the safety of our operations but also for educating the students and post-docs of our group in HEDM research and characterization techniques.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141512818
Entities
People
- Ralf Haiges
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Southern California