MRI: Acquisition of a TXRF spectrometer for Research in Chemistry, Biology, and Geology

在主要研究仪器计划（MRI）的奖励和化学研究仪器计划（CRIF）的支持下，高露洁大学的Roger Rowlett教授及其同事Richard April，Catherine Cardelus和Randall Fuller将获得TXRF（全反射X射线荧光）光谱仪。 通常，在TXRF光谱仪中，X射线在激发顶层中的原子从而产生荧光的过程中被引导到材料的表面。检测器中的荧光测量提供了有关材料成分的信息。该技术是非常敏感的，并允许定量微量的材料与最小的样品操作，允许表征复杂的，异质性矩阵。该仪器将用于化学、生物学和地质学的研究和调查实验室。该奖项将加强各级研究和教育，特别是在以下领域：（a）研究β-碳酸酐酶（β-CA），以了解这种酶的变构调节机制;（B）了解酸性沉积物对美国东北部落叶林的影响;（c）研究酸胁迫溪流生态系统中的铝毒性。

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation Program (MRI) and support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation Program (CRIF), Professor Roger Rowlett from Colgate University and colleagues Richard April, Catherine Cardelus and Randall Fuller will acquire a TXRF (total reflection X-ray fluorescence) spectrometer. In general, in a TXRF spectrometer, X-rays are directed to the surface of a material in a process that excites atoms in the top layers thus generating fluorescence. The measurement of the fluorescence in a detector provides information on the material composition. The technique is very sensitive and allows quantification of minute amounts of materials with minimal sample manipulation allowing characterization of complex, heterogeneous matrices. The instrumentation will be used in research and inquire-based laboratories not only in Chemistry but also in Biology and Geology.The award will enhance research and education at all levels, especially in areas such as (a) investigatiion of beta-carbonic anhy drase (beta-CA) to understand the mechanism of allosteric regulation in this enzyme; (b) understanding the effects of acidic deposition on northeastern deciduous forests of the United States; and (c) studying aluminum toxicity in acid-stressed stream ecosystems.