A sea-going mass spectrometer for the analysis of climate-active trace gases in surface ocean waters

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My research group examines the production, distribution and biogeochemical cycling of oceanic climate-active gases, including dimethyl sulfide (DMS), and other important volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Our aim is to study the sources and fate of these compounds across the air-sea interface, to better understand global climate feedbacks. Dimethyl sulfide impacts Earth's climate through the production of atmospheric aerosols that block incoming solar radiation. This molecule also plays a considerable role in the transfer of carbon, sulfur and energy across marine trophic levels. We have developed a powerful analytical method using mass spectrometry to measure DMS and other VOCs in seawater at ultra-low levels. The method is suitable for detecting these compounds in all marine environments, across many of orders of magnitude in concentration, enabling unique applications that are not possible with other methods. Our research applications include stable isotope incubations to measure the production and consumption of marine DMS through various pathways, as well as the detection and characterization of DMS micro-zones within low oxygen waters. Unfortunately, the mass spectrometer was recently damaged at sea during unusually heavy weather, which caused a table to topple over. This represents a significant and immediate challenge for my research group, as a number of student and PDF projects depend critically on the instrument. This RTI application requests funds to repair the mass spectrometer, enabling my group to move forward with our research program. The instrument will be shipped to the manufacturer, Hiden Analytical, where a number of critical components will be replaced, returning the instrument to optimal performance. The repaired instrument will be used to support HQP training, and allow my group to continue advancing understanding of the marine sulfur cycle. Trainees using the instrument are drawn from diverse backgrounds, including individuals who intend to use their advanced training to support environmental management in developing countries.  Without access to the instrument, analysis of existing field samples will not be possible, and we will have to cancel planned participation in a number of upcoming oceanographic expeditions.