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Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/H002308/1

An instrumental solution to compound-specific 15N analysis

Grant Award

Principal Investigator:
Professor T Preston, Scottish Universities Env Research Cen, SUERC
Co-Investigator:
Dr DJ Morrison, Scottish Universities Env Research Cen, SUERC
Science Area:
Terrestrial
Marine
Freshwater
Earth
Atmospheric
Overall Classification:
Marine
ENRIs:
Pollution and Waste
Natural Resource Management
Global Change
Environmental Risks and Hazards
Biodiversity
Science Topics:
Palaeobiology
Ecosystem Scale Processes
Community Ecology
Technol. for Environ. Appl.
Abstract:
The need for compound specific 15N analysis (CSNA) is increasingly recognised, especially in ecological science by those wishing to study tissue diet spacing at the amino acid level. However, difficulties in its practical implementation have so far resulted in poor uptake. By developing a novel system for LC-IRMS analysis of 15N, we aim to overcome difficulties in sample preparation required for GC analysis, producing a practical and largely instrumental solution to this problem. The team at SUERC, with unique experience in IRMS interface design and stable isotope applications, proposes a partnership with UK industry and Marine Environmental Scientists. Working in partnership with Nu Instruments, the premier IRMS design team in the UK, we will implement two systems for CSNA, firstly a low risk solution (TRL 4) for analysis of primary amines and secondly, a higher risk solution (TRL 1) for total nitrogen analysis. In both cases the capability for 13C analysis will be retained. These systems will be demonstrated by CSNA analysis of amino acids derived from tissue and diet samples from controlled mariculture systems, in collaboration with Bangor University. Dissemination will take place through the NERC community and beyond. Commercial exploitation will be undertaken by our industrial partner.
Period of Award:
6 Jan 2010 - 5 Apr 2012
Value:
£89,923
Authorised funds only
NERC Reference:
NE/H002308/1
Grant Stage:
Completed
Scheme:
Directed (Research Programmes)
Grant Status:
Closed

This grant award has a total value of £89,923  

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FDAB - Financial Details (Award breakdown by headings)

Indirect - Indirect CostsDA - InvestigatorsDA - Estate CostsDI - StaffDI - T&S
£21,122£30,204£6,203£31,418£974

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