Acquisition of Scanning Electron Microscope for Materials Research and Education
Abstract
We propose the acquisition of a high-resolution scanning electron microscope (SEM) to create a multiuser electron microscopy materials research facility at Alabama State University (ASU). The facility will support a number of materials-related, multidisciplinary research and education activities Materials Science, Physics, Biomedical Engineering, and Biomaterials. Cutting-edge research at ASU is focused on nanostructured, compositionally-graded, multiphase polymeric, metallic and ceramic materials for automotive, military, medical implants, dental and tissue scaffold applications. Progress in the understanding of fundamental aspects of the synthesis, processing, and structure of these materials is contingent upon our ability to quantitatively analyze them at multiple scales, especially at nano-scales. We have identified a high-resolution scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer as a critical tool for meeting the need for this analysis. This state-of-the-art SEM will be integral to research support and also to the education of students in K-14, undergraduate school, and graduate school. The requested instrument will support a number of fundedc projects, and is necessary for progress to continue at ASU in the fundamental understanding of the structure and processing issues for a variety of materials. A number of research projects at ASU involve hierarchically-structured materials. The ability to characterize and analyze these structures and determine their composition as a function of synthesis and processing will allow development of new knowledge that will have a significant impact on basic materials research. Research findings will also impact a number of application areas, including wear resistant diamond thin films, multifunctional nanocomposites, nanostructured bioactive polymers and composites, multiscale composites, middle-infrared quantum confinement lasers, analysis of nanometer sized wear debris from biomedical implant materials, and the study of new, high-strength, high toughness aluminum alloys for ballistic protection. This instrument will be a focal point of undergraduate/graduate teaching and research at ASU. At least 3 courses in Biomedical Engineering and Chemistry will use the instrument. Additionally, approximately 20 faculty and graduate students whose research involves characterization by SEM will be trained to independently use the instrument. Graduate students from other departments, including Biology, Physics and Chemistry, will also use the SEM in their research. Approximately 10 undergraduate students will utilize this instrument through funded research projects. The SEM will enhance collaborations between ASU and neighboring institutions. The acquisition of this instrument will enhance demonstrations to be offered in K-12 outreach programs, such as Engineering Open House.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110136
Entities
People
- Derrick Dean
Organizations
- Alabama State College
- Army Contracting Command
- Office of the Secretary of Defense