Project R-11072

MALDI-ToF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization - Time of Flight) Mass Spectrometer for Advanced Polymer Analysis (Research)

The activities of the Institute for Materials Research of Hasselt University critically depend on the presence of state-of-the-art infrastructure, which is used for fundamental as well as more applied materials-oriented research in the fields of energy (generation/storage), sustainability and healthcare. Detailed material characterization is a crucial step to bridge the material synthesis and product development platforms. Within the institute, advanced polymer design, synthesis and application of the newly developed materials (e.g. in organic electronics and sensors) has been a key topic for the past 30 years. This is particularly true for conjugated polymers. On the other hand, important new research lines on biobased and recycled polymers are being developed. With respect to polymer analysis, notably from a structural point of view, mass spectrometry is indispensable, providing complementary information to other techniques and with particular benefits in terms of detailed polymer backbone and end group analysis. To maintain our position at the forefront of polymer and organic electronics research in Flanders, we strive to acquire a state-of-the-art MALDIToF mass spectrometer. The equipment also allows to perform biomolecule and tissue analysis, of high value for other research institutes at Hasselt University. On top of that, the infrastructure will also be applied for services to (local) industries and will be accessible to collaborators from other Flemish universities.

01 May 2020 - 30 April 2024