Acquisition of Bruker S6 Jaguar Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence System for the Characterization of Advanced Materials and for Energy Applications

On behalf of the Electron Microscopy Center (EMC, College of Engineering, ASTeCC building), the PI is proposing the acquisition of a wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) system from Bruker, the S6 Jaguar. With this instrument, several analysis capabilities not currently offered at the EMC will be available to our user base, unlocking new levels of support for research in the fields of materials science and energy. This capability is not currently available at the EMC, and many researchers in need of WD-XRF analysis rely instead on other characterization techniques that are not the most suitable for their needs, such as energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The proposed Bruker system will be housed at the EMC and be fully accessible to all users across campus, in the same way as other characterization equipment available in the center. Instrument maintenance and user training will be performed by existing EMC staff members. This new capability will support research in the development and characterization of materials for energy applications and for researchers in many more fields. It will complement other instruments available at the EMC and will strengthen collaboration prospects and engagement with local industrial partners. The PI is proposing that this instrument be acquired with funds from both the Energy and Materials Science Research Priority Areas, as it will greatly benefit energy-oriented research besides other materials science focused investigations. The proposed budget reflects this split and details the level of support requested from each RPA.