9622294 Schnoor The ion-trap mass spectrometer with a membrane introduction system requested in this proposal will be dedicated to support research in environmental engineering. The instrument will be used for several projects, including: 1) Uptake of BETX Compounds and Metabolites by Hybrid Poplar Trees in Hazardous Waste Prevention and Remediation; 2) Terrestrial Phytoremediation of Ammunition Wastes; 3) Reductive Dechlorination of Halogenated Methanes with Iron Metal; 4) Stimulation of BTX Bioremediation by Environmentally Acceptable Aromatic Substances; and 5) Application of Anaerobic and Multiple-Electron-Acceptor Bioremediaton of Chlorinated Subsurface Contamination. Coupled with a membrane introduction sampling system, the mass spectrometer will allow for the continuous and simultaneous monitoring of volatile components of environmental concern in a water matrix. Using syringe injections, the instrument will be used as a structure identification technique for nonvolatile compounds such ass trinitrotoluene and pesticides. The information gained from these laboratory experiments will be applied to field pollution prevention and remediation situations. If successful, the strategies developed with the help of the proposed equipment have the potential to save millions of dollars by offering more cost effective, in-situ site remediation techniques.
