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

在主要研究仪器项目（MRI）和化学研究仪器项目（CRIF）的支持下，来自科尔盖特大学的Roger Rowlett教授及其同事Richard April、Catherine Cardelus和Randall Fuller将获得一台TXRF（全反射x射线荧光）光谱仪。一般来说，在TXRF光谱仪中，x射线在激发顶层原子从而产生荧光的过程中被引导到材料的表面。在检测器中对荧光的测量提供了有关材料成分的信息。该技术非常敏感，可以用最小的样品操作对微量材料进行定量，从而可以表征复杂的异质矩阵。该仪器将用于研究和探究式实验室，不仅在化学，而且在生物学和地质学。该奖项将加强各级的研究和教育，特别是在以下领域：(a)对β -碳酸酐酶（β -ca）的研究，以了解该酶的变构调节机制；(b)了解酸性沉降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铝的毒性。

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.