CENTC Elemental Analysis Facility

CENTC

Our microanalysis system was purchased through a supplemental research grant under the auspices of the Center for Enabling New Technologies Through Catalysis (NSF CHE-0650456), a National Science Foundation Phase II Center for Chemical Innovation.

During the center’s existence, researchers from across North America were brought together to collaboratively address the economic, environmental, and national security needs for more efficient, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly methods of producing chemicals and fuels from a variety of feedstocks. Through catalysis, CENTC researchers aimed to lower the energy costs of transforming chemicals, use inexpensive, abundant, and nontoxic starting materials, and generate less waste.

Equipment

• Microanalyses are determined on a PerkinElmer 2400 Series II Analyzer.
• Sample masses are measured on a PerkinElmer Model AD6000 Autobalance.
• Air-sensitive materials are prepared in a dedicated VAC Atmospheres glovebox loaded with Ar (argon) gas, and then crimp-sealed in special tin capsules with a designated die apparatus.
• Liquids and volatile solids are also crimp-sealed in special tin capsules with a designated die apparatus.

Operation

• Samples are analyzed as is (drying services are not available) for carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen only.
• The analyzer is calibrated at the beginning of a session with a standard of known composition, and the calibration is checked periodically throughout the day.
• Helium carrier gas (99.998 %) is employed: accuracy is 0.3 % and precision is 0.2 % per element.
• All experiments are performed by a single operator, who alone is authorized to use the equipment.

Samples

• Submission Form: Please download and complete the Sample Submission Form (PDF) to include with your materials.
• A minimum of 2.0 mg of loose solid or liquid is requested for each determination, but at least twice that amount is recommended (send 5 mg, if possible). There is generally sample loss due to the transfer process. Upwards to 8-10 mg of sample is requested for fluffy and/or staticky solids and for highly viscous liquid materials.
• Air-sensitive samples must be in vessels that will withstand the expansion forces exerted under external vacuum (~0.01 Torr). Screw cap vials and well-sealed ampules work well; ampules sealed under vacuum are not recommended because of the potential for glass contamination upon opening.
• Samples sent from outside the university are not returned unless prior arrangements are made.
• Each sample must have a unique name, which will appear on the report.
• Samples should be sent via FedEx or UPS only.

Reports

• The submitter receives via email a standard analysis report (PDF).
• Reports are normally emailed late afternoon or evening of the day of operation.

Rates Per Run

*Denotes the F&A fee of 51% assessed for overhead as determined by the Office of Research Accounting and Costing Standards.