Advanced multi-scale microscopic imaging, measurement, and research for the LSU-Defense Partnership
Abstract
The purpose of this proposal is to substantially expand the US Army and Army Research LaboratoryÕs multi-scale imaging, materials characterization, and microscopy research capabilities by partnering with Louisiana State University (LSU) to gain molecular-to-subatomic-level insight into microstructure, architecture, functionality, and ensuing macroscopic properties, ultimately enabling the design of novel sensing and protective materials and providing critical analysis expertise in areas like trusted and assured microelectronics. This instrument proposal seeks to acquire a high-end scanning transmission electron microscope to be housed in the university shared instrumentation facility, guaranteeing its sustainability. LSU is the flagship institution for the State of Louisiana, and it is one of only 17 universities in the nation to be designated as a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant university. Over 130 faculty members on the LSU campus are involved in Materials Research and Engineering, ranging from biomaterials, catalysts, electronic materials, quantum materials, and structural materials. Characterization of materials has dramatically changed with the availability of electron microscopes with subatomic spatial resolution and the ability to identify the identity and bonding character of any atom, allowing one to directly see and identify features in the sub-angstrom scale. Our goal is to leverage a new instrument to catalyze and capitalize on LSUÕs emerging capabilities to exploit the fundamental understanding of various interactions across cellular to molecular to subatomic scales. A combination of electron and optical microscope instrumentation will provide the capacity for characterization of materials across the spectrum from hard to soft materials and in combination, such as tissue-embedded devicesÑa capability that is rivaled at very few institutions. Next generation materials of interest to the Army will span this spectrum, and we propose to expand our research portfolio accordingly. Given the Department of ArmyÕs basic research in defense needs, the strength of the materials efforts in the state of Louisiana, the commitment of the State to grow programs in material science and engineering, and objectives of the StateÕs Science and Technology Plan, we believe that this proposed high-end instrument will transform Louisiana into a leader in the fields of materials science and engineering, providing the Department of the Army with a further substantial investment into basic research for strategic defense needs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 09, 2020
- Source ID
- W911NF2010221
Entities
People
- Samuel J. Bentley
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Louisiana State University
- United States Army