MRI: Acquisition of an Advanced FTIR Imaging Microscope for Multidisciplinary Research and Training in the State of Mississippi

This award is jointly supported by the Major Research Instrumentation, the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), and the Chemistry Research Instrumentation programs. The University of Mississippi is acquiring a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) imaging microscope to support the research of Professor James Cizdziel and colleagues Carolyn Freiwald, Vijayasankar Raman, Courtney Roper, and Matteo D'Alessio.

This instrument facilitates research in the areas of chemistry, energy, materials, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, as well as archeology and anthropology. In general, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy measures the intensity of the absorbed or transmitted infrared radiation when it passes through a solid, liquid or gaseous sample. The resulting spectra represent the molecular absorption or transmission of the tested substance.

When infrared radiation passes through a compound part of it is absorbed by the constituent molecules which vibrate or rotate at certain frequencies. In a heterogeneous sample this powerful analytical tool is good for identifying chemical composition qualitatively. The information can also be used to create an image of the material composition in a sample.

This instrument enhances the educational, research, and teaching efforts of students at all levels in many departments as well as provides accessibility for use at nearby institutions.

The award of the FTIR imaging microscope is aimed at enhancing research and education at all levels, especially in areas such as environmental and forensic chemistry involving microplastics, atmospheric fine particulates and metabolized drugs. Research in the area of archeology and anthropology is also facilitated by identifying compounds in prehistoric paints and analyzing Mesoamerican artifacts.

Studies focused on biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences for studying serum exposed ionic liquids, the role of the active human IGF-1 protein in alterations of ischemic tissues, topical drugs and dietary supplements are also pursued as are those focused on analysis of materials relevant for aerogels, water treatment and solar cells.

This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.