Microfabricated Thermal Modulator for Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography

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This research aims to develop a key microelectromechanical systems(MEMS) device necessary for low-power, low-cost, robust 2D GC. The specific objectives of thisproject are to (a) develop a good understanding of the physics and chemistry governing themicroscale thermal modulation based on theoretical modeling, (b) develop a new MEMS-basedthermal modulator (microTM) device design such that it enables a 2D GC system that achievestheoretically predicted maximum peak capacity and minimum peak breakthrough, (c) fabricate thedesigned ìTM and experimentally characterize its performance, and (d) finally, demonstrate micrTM incorporating2D GC with the highest compound separation performance with optimal operational conditions determined.Intellectual Merit: With the development of the microTM, our study will provide the first step towardsfully implementing comprehensive 2D GC with MEMS technology. It is readily conceivable that theimproved separation power of 2D GC systems would pave the way for highly reliable and accuratein-situ monitoring/detection of VOCs in a sample even containing complex co-contaminantbackgrounds. This project will make important contributions to micro analytical instrumentation forultimate use in field-deployable GC analyses.Broader Impact: Together with cost effectiveness, complete elimination of consumables from the 2D GCoperation with the microTM would fill the gap between the current relatively limited use and futuregeneral use of the 2D GC technique in a wide spectrum of applications, potentially opening newcommercial markets. The fundamental knowledge gained from this research will be assimilated intothe PI's graduate course on MEMS and chemical sensing. Summer interns from underrepresented groups will be trained through synergeticcoordination with the NSF National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network (NNIN) program.