Faculty ProjectsHot Stage and Imaging System
Project Manager![Headshot of Kathleen Stair](../images/faculty-projects/hot-stage-imaging.jpg)
Kathleen Stair, Professor of Instruction in Materials Science and Engineering; Assistant Chair of Materials Science and Engineering
Amount Requested
$30,759
Summary
The hot stage and imaging system will provide visualization of phenomena including crystallization of polymers from the melt, interface formation, color and structural changes in liquid crystals, and phase transitions in binary eutectic systems. The is a replacement/upgrade for a key piece of equipment that is essential in the MatSci curriculum.
Planned Activities/Investments
The objective is to provide students with hands-on exposure to microstructural phenomena discussed in core undergraduate courses, and the opportunity to analyze quantitative data.
Impact
The system will be used by students in several classes, including Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical and Biological Engineering majors. Lab exercises include:
- Mat_Sci 302 - 1) Polymer crystallization and 2) Liquid crystal transformations
- Mat_Sci 316-2 - 1) Salt solidification/ phase transformations and 2) quantitative measurements of polymer crystallization.
Sustainability
This would be a one-time purchase that is expected to serve departmental curriculum objectives for at least a decade.
Deliverables
In all cases, students will submit written lab reports.
Budget Overview
Quote from Mettler-Toledo:
- $ 19,110.00 Hot Stage system HS 82
- $ 11,620.00 Imaging package from Olympus (to be retired)
- $ 29.00 Handling
Total Budget Amount: $ 30,759
Matching Funds
The MSE department will provide the computer needed for image capture.