Powder X-Ray Diffraction for the Characterization of Corrosion of Materials, Plasmonic Nanostructures and Photocatalysts in Water Systems

Advanced materials characterization has become a critical requirement for emerging breakthroughs in water quality monitoring and treatment. In this proposal, Drs Gagnon, Dasog, and Stoddart have developed a collaborative approach to understand water infrastructure and develop new materials for water technology. This synergistic collaboration across research teams is seeking funding for a powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) system, a powerful non-destructive technology that utilizes a monochromatic beam of X-rays to characterize crystalline materials. This instrument is required for the characterization of crystalline materials of corroded drinking water pipes, plasmonic nanomaterials that will be used in microbiological research, and photoanodes for water treatment. This instrument will be used immediately by more than 15 HQP in their labs. As well, this equipment will provide an extensive range of capabilities for water quality research that involves existing collaborative partnerships with the water industry.