To run an instrument, users must first be trained. In addition to instrumentation, additional equipment is also available for use. Instrument and/or equipment training can be requested here.

Submissions can be made for any instrument and samples will be run by one of our trained managers. Our facilities are not equipped for intensive sample preparation. All samples should be ready to run upon submission with little to no additional sample preparation.

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Non-chemistry self-operation users cannot be provided building keys for afterhours lab work (e.g., evenings and weekends). Experiments should be performed during normal weekday business hours (ca. 8 am – 5 pm, Monday – Friday).

Any experiment requiring temperature ramping and/or holding a sample at an elevated temperature requires TGA sample evaluation prior to further investigation. Namely, DSC experiments can involve sample temperature manipulation. Performing experiments outside a sample’s temperature stability range can damage the instrumentation and nullify any results acquired. Therefore, all DSC experiments require TGA evaluation (for the 5% decomposition temperature) prior to acquisition on either instrument. DSC experiments should only be conducted at temperatures below the T₉₅ (generally, T_max = T₉₅ – 10 °C). If users desire DSC training, TGA training is also required. Service requests for DSC sample analysis will also require TGA evaluation prior to the requested service.

The GPC systems are submission-based only. Ideally, samples should be submitted a neat material (ca. 5 – 10 mg material). Managers will then prepare the samples appropriately in the desired mobile phase. Alternatively, if submitters are on campus, samples can be submitted as prepared solutions in HPLC-grade THF or HFIP (1 – 2 mg/mL), filtered (0.2 µm) and particulate free. Samples should only be submitted in well-sealed glass containers.

The Universal mechanical tester (i.e., the Tensile Tester) is submission-based only.