Acquisition of Advanced Vibrational and Optical Spectroscopy and Imaging System for Interdisciplinary Materials Research, STEM Education, and Outreach
Abstract
Development of new nanomaterials and methods of detection of hazardous compounds (sensing) is of interest to DoD and ARO in particular. Next, this is of importance to shed light into reactions of functional nanomaterials via understanding molecular mechanisms of their operation by instrumental and, specifically, spectroscopic analysis. Further, elucidating environmental effects of hazardous materials is conducted by studies of living systems e.g. cells, using the spectroscopic and advanced microscopic analysis. We propose acquisition of a unique, integrated multi-functional instrumentation system for the comprehensive spectroscopic and microscopic characterization of advanced nanomaterials, biomaterials, and their reactions of interest to ARO. It will significantly benefit research by faculty groups from three STEM departments (Chemistry, Physics and Biology) at Morgan State University (MSU), enhance the capacity of MSU as an HBCU to participate in DoD research, and allow new collaborations with on- and off-campus users. This system will be used for STEM education of students for careers in DOD by teaching existing and new undergraduate and graduate courses. Finally, this system will be used in existing and new outreach activities. It includes: 1) Confocal Raman microscope for characterization of composition and reactions of nano- and biomaterials via detection of chemical bonds, their changes in reactions, and spatial localization. In addition, these materials and their reactions will be studied by hyperspectral imaging with spatial resolution well beyond the diffraction limit of light. 2) Several upgrade units to research-grade fluorescence spectrometer Fluorolog-QM for the comprehensive characterization of optical properties of materials and studies of their reactions. They include units for ultrafast decay and phosphorescence lifetime with spectral range up to 1550 nm, a specimen cryostat for cooling down to 77 K, and the second emission channel for real-time near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and polarization studies. 3) The capabilities of Fluorolog-QM spectrometer will be further enhanced by the dual-function absorbance/fluorescence spectrometer Duetta. This instrument will also be used for teaching STEM courses and conducting the multiple outreach activities. This instrumentation system will allow to develop new capabilities in research areas of interest to DoD by PI, co-PIs and other users: a) synthesis of new nanomaterials and testing their selective interactions with hazardous compounds; b) developing and testing new methods of spectroscopic analysis with the significantly enhanced performance; and c) studying effects of hazardous compounds on biological systems. The two Research Themes integrate research areas and matching interests of ARO programs and Thrust areas. This multi-functional, advanced instrumentation system will become one of a kind, state-of-the-art, and an exceptionally capable shared-user suite for cutting-edge interdisciplinary STEM research, education, and outreach. With an unparalleled set of capabilities not available anywhere in the world, it will significantly help STEM departments of MSU seek DOD funding, publish research papers, initiate and conduct collaborations with on- and off-campus groups, DoD labs, and significantly enhance undergraduate and graduate education. Finally, it will be used in the multiple outreach activities to high and middle school students, and will contribute to attracting underrepresented minorities pursue studies leading to STEM careers.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110204
Entities
People
- Alexander Samokhvalov
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Morgan State University
- Office of the Secretary of Defense