We are a dedicated analytical chemistry group at UND. We specialize in gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, air particulate matter, thermal degradation and carbon quantification. As a diverse group of graduate students with a variety of backgrounds, hailing from five different countries, we gain bountiful knowledge from eachother, Dr. Kubatova, and through hands-on experience in our lab. Operating and maintaining our own instruments prepares us and has landed previous students in major chemical/analytical companies.
Thermal-desorption/pyrolysis GC-MS uses an inert atmosphere to pyrolyze almost any material, which is then introduced into the GC system to be identified with mass spectrometry. We are currently investigating environmental topics such as the breakdown and formation PFAS and PAHs.
High-resolution HPLC time-of-flight mass spectrometry uses atmospheric pressure ionization to create accurate mass measurements and reveal isotopic patterns for identification. A collaborative project with the forensics department allows us to investigate controlled substances in addition to our other polymeric material research.
Gas chromatography quadrapole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry provides high resolution mass accurate data for trace concentration analysis. Accurate MS/MS offers powerful analysis for identification and quantification. Thermal desorption and pyrolysis application is available for high accuracy thermal degradation studies.
Gel permeation chromatography coupled with multi-angle light scattering enables absolute molecular weight determination of polymeric materials. Our lab investigates polymer degradation and biopolymer characterization with this instrument.
Organic carbon elemental carbon analyzer is used to quantify carbonaceous particles. Frequently used for aerosol particle matter analysis. Our lab has also developed a biomass carbon quantification for bulk carbon analysis.
Evolved gas analysis mass spectrometry provides rapid, real-time screening of themal degradation by implementing a gas chromatography system without chromatographic separation. Thermal profiles are used to investigate material degradation.