The Stable Isotope Research Unit contains two mass spectrometers; a Europa Scientific Tracermass Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer and a newer PDZ Europa 20/20 Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer. We are equipped with both a solid and a capillary GC preparation unit. The Europa Scientific ANCA SL Roboprep prep system is designed for the automated analysis of 15N and 13C in solid biological, environmental, and marine samples and can be linked to either mass spectrometer. The system utilizes a Dumas combustion/reduction apparatus, thereby eliminating the need for lengthy Kjeldahl digests. The Agilent capillary GC is used primarily for the separation of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) but can also be used for the separation of other carbon containing compounds such as carbohydrates and amino acids. This unit works in conjunction with the PDZ Europa 20/20 mass spectrometer.
The Solid/Liquid Preparation module linked to a
20-20 Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer.
