Acquisition of an X-Ray Scattering System with Solid-Gas Reactor Chamber and Ultrafast Detection Capabilities for Research and Instruction in Science and Engineering.

摘要

This project was aimed at the acquisition of an x-ray scattering system for research and student instruction. We purchased a Panalytical Empyrean with unique sample-environment-control capabilities that enable studies of functional materials under their actual operating conditions. The system has been installed, commissioned and is fully functional. Moreover, the system became the centerpiece of a new xray core facility that now includes three diffractometers (two powder and one single crystal). Following the DoD-HBCU sponsorship of this project, UTEP provided internal funding for the single crystal system a Bruker D8 Quest (December 2014), for the renovation of two rooms to house the facility (February 2015), and for the hiring of a postdoctoral researcher to oversee its day-to-day operations (January 2015). The internal funding amount was $390,000. The facility is now operational and has begun serving its main two objectives: 1) research aimed at investigating the atomic level structures and dynamics that govern the enhanced proton conductivity in compounds that can function as fuel cell electrolytes at intermediate temperatures (e.g. doped Sn-pyrophosphates and phosphate-solid-acid/silica composites), and 2) instruction of student-faculty teams in acquiring skills and experiences necessary to actively participate in a UTEP National Laboratory collaborative program.