History and Facilities of the EMPL

The Electron Microprobe Laboratory (EMPL) was established in 1988 through a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (#DE-FG22-87FE1146). It was built around a fully computer-automated Cameca SX50 electron probe microanalyzer with maximum configuration and special light element capabilities, and remains one of the fastest and most versatile such instruments in the world. Throughout its existence, operation of the facility has graciously been supported by the University of Oklahoma Office of Research Administration. In August-September of 1995, upgrades to computer automation, backscattered electron detection system, and imaging systems were accomplished via a National Science Foundation grant (#EAR-9404658), with matching funds supplied by the University of Oklahoma Vice President for Research and from user fees accrued by the laboratory. Further upgrades to the computing systems, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Analyzer automation, digital image capture system, display monitors, and printers were made in the first half of 1999, again via funds from OU VPR and accrued user fees. The GATAN cathodoluminescence detector was added in June, 2000, made possible from by funds from the OU VPR. The sample stage was replaced in 2004 with funds from a National Science Foundation grant (#EAR-0124179). Further upgrades to the computer automation, image and EDXA acquisition systems, and other hardware components within the microprobe were enabled by a 2007-2008 National Science Foundation grant (#EAR-0649001), with additional funds furnished by the University of Oklahoma Vice President for Research.

The EMPL occupies three rooms on the lower level of Sarkeys Energy Center, comprising a total area of near 1000 ft². The microprobe itself is situated in a spacious room (#E106) of nearly 600 ft². Controlled atmosphere and dedicated uninterruptable power supply provide a superbly stable operating environment year-round. Complete sample preparation facilities, including grinding and polishing equipment, binocular microscope, and research grade petrographic microscope are available in the adjoining laboratory. Support equipment (rotary mechanical vacuum pumps and the dedicated water chiller for the microprobe) also are located in the adjoining sample preparation laboratory, to minimize noise and vibration around the microprobe itself.

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