An atomic force microscope (AFM)

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This proposal is for the purchase of an AFM for the measurement of important material surface properties - both chemical and physical properties - for various applications among 6 interdisciplinary research groups at the Faculties of Engineering, Science and Medicine at the University of Ottawa.     The equipment will be used for a wide range of research programs involving 6 independent researchers and over 25 graduate students. The research programs include: 1) biomaterials and neuronal tissue engineering to design a nerve analog for nerve regeneration after spinal cord injuries; 2) the development of environmentally friendly paints, coatings and adhesives; 3) the study of membrane design to reduce membrane fouling for applications in membrane separation; 4)  the study of particle agglomeration and fouling due to electrostatic charges; 5) development of novel biomimetic materials, photocages and hydrogel nanoparticles for delivery of drugs and peptides for regenerative medicine applications in the cornea and retina; and 6) the study of creating novel biomaterials assembled from engineered protein polymers.