MRI: Acquisition of a next-generation electron microprobe at the University of Minnesota

The project is for the University of Minnesota to acquire a next-generation electron microprobe to replace a well-used but aging 23-year-old instrument. This investment provides the newest capabilities in high-resolution mapping of elements in rocks, organic material, and high-technology materials. This support is congruent with NSFs mission of promoting the progress of science and advancing the national health, prosperity and welfare, given the importance of expanding the frontiers of knowledge in the earth and environmental sciences, engineering, archeology, biotechnology and dentistry. The new instrument serves a national research community as well as universities in Minnesota, western Wisconsin, the Dakotas, and Montana.

The University of Minnesota will acquire a next-generation electron microprobe, which houses multiple energy-dispersive spectrometers, including a Soft X-ray Emission Spectrometer (SXES). The instrument means that elements can be mapped at a high-spatial resolution of 200 nanometers. The SXES provides for a new capability in the analysis of light elements and organic matter, phosphates, carbonates, and polymers. Research programs at Minnesota that depend on electron microprobe analyses include experimental petrology, mineral and rock physics, geobiology, geomicrobiology, and bioremediation, tectonics and metamorphic petrology, mineral and rock magnetism, aqueous geochemistry, paleoclimate, and economic geology.