Ultra-trace analysis of Elements in Feedstock Materials using Inductively -Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer.

Use state-of-the-art instrumentation to analyze samples in support of nuclear fusion experiments.

Project description

The next generation of nuclear energy sources may use nuclear fusion as the operating principle. One of the most popular of the potential pathways to a viable nuclear fusion reaction that is being explored requires several feedstock materials that are isotopically-pure. These materials, such as lithium, come from many different locations, such as mines, brine wells, sea=water sources, and recycled materials. As a consequence, each type of material will have different concentrations of a variety of trace elements as sources of contamination. In this project, we will examine different types of feedstock materials and analyze each for the abundance and type of trace contaminant, using an ultra-trace analytical technique known as inductibely-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). This technique uses a plasma to ionize material for analysis by mass spectrometry, and it is capable of limits of detection below 1fg/mL in solution.

Project outcome

Analysis of a range of materials for trace components, with a report back to a commercial research partner outlining abundance, element, and isotopic composition of the conaminants.

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Year long (10-12 months)
Start time Anytime
In-person, remote, or hybrid? In Person Project
Level of collaboration Individual student project
Benefits Academic credit
Who is eligible All undergraduate students who have taken CHE 314 and CHE 315

Project mentor

Steven Ray

Undergraduate Researcher

Chemistry

Phone: (716) 645-4241

Email: sjray2@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
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Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

Please read the following papers for familiarization: http://scientificsolutions1.com/Beginners%20guide%20to%20ICP-MS.pdfRe https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s006040170041 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0584854702000691 https://resources.perkinelmer.com/corporate/cmsresources/images/44-74849tch_icpmsthirtyminuteguide.pdf

Keywords

Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry