Environmental Sciences Analytical Center
The Environmental Science Analytical Center (ESAC), located on the fifth floor of Ingersoll Hall, is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation for environmental research and education, and provides analytical services to a wide range of customers. Core facilities include a Perkin-Elmer Dynamic Reaction Cell Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS), an Analytical JEOL 200-kV Transmitted Electron Microscope (TEM), and a Philips Multi-Purpose X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD). An environmental geochemistry laboratory is available for both research and teaching activities.
The facilities at ESAC can provide structural and compositional information for a wide range of samples, especially at very high resolutions (nanometer scale) or ultra-low elemental concentrations (parts per trillion ranges).
- The ICP-MS can rapidly analyze most elements in the periodic table in many different environmental, geological and biological matrices. The low-blank trace metal lab processes all types of samples into aqueous solution that ICP-MS can analyze. The instrument provides parts per billion (ppb) to parts per trillion (ppt) detection limits for most elements. For toxic metals, such as arsenic, mercury, chromium, and selenium, speciation capability is also available.
- The multipurpose TEM can be used for high-resolution image observation, versatile analysis by convergent-beam electron diffraction, and analysis of the atomic structure and/or binding sites of atoms.
- The XRD is currently primarily used for the identification and quantification of mineral phases (e.g., asbestos), metal oxides in natural or synthetic materials, and rocking curve measurements.
The center is open to all faculty members, researchers, and students at Brooklyn College and other City University of New York campuses for their research and teaching activities. We especially welcome collaborative ideas and encourage developing joint proposals to seek external funding to make the center more sustainable.
We also provide a range of analytical services to the public. Standard EPA procedures are followed, and data quality control practices are implemented where possible. Because we are a nonprofit organization, our fees are significantly lower than normal commercial pricing. A list of services, laboratory protocols, and pricing can be obtained upon request.
Direct all inquiries to:
Professor Joshua (Zhongqi) Cheng
Director
P: 718.951.5000, ext. 2647
