9313523 Shaler This award will provide funding for the renovation of the wood science and processing research space at the University of Maine. Research activities pursued in this facility include: the elucidation of biochemical mechanisms involved in wood deterioration by fungi, nondestructive evaluation of wood-based composite materials, mechanical properties of structural members, biotechnology and bioprocessing of wood through the use of microorganisms. These investigations have implications not just to the field of wood science, but to all environmental studies related to carbon cycling and greenhouse gas production. The laboratories are used for research and research training by the department and are shared with others from the Departments of Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Biology, and Engineering. The research facility, constructed in 1968, is located in the south wing of Nutting Hall. Specific areas needing renovation consist of a continuous suite containing processing, sample preparation, and analytical areas, and a physically separate wood biochemistry and biotechnology facility on the same wing. The space suffers from a lack of separation between processing, sample preparation and analytical areas, poor ventilation, and inefficient usage of available space. Inadequate bench space and the lack of basic utility services ranging from electrical outlets to hoods and chemical storage currently limit the work done in the biotechnology and biochemistry areas. Once the laboratories are renovated, the improved facilities will enhance the interaction that currently exists with researchers from other departments and will promote in the recruitment of quality graduate students in this important area. ***
