TAF funds in Category 4: Discipline-Specific Equipment is requested for the acquisition of a Keyence Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) microscope to enhance laboratory instruction across multiple CBAS curricula at MTSU. The LIBS microscope integrates high-resolution optical imaging with real-time elemental analysis, allowing students to visualize microstructures and directly determine elemental composition without extensive sample preparation. This advanced capability is particularly transformative for courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geoscience, Agriculture, Animal Science, Forensic Science, Concrete Industry Management, Environmental Science and Technology and Materials Science, where understanding microstructural and compositional relationships is essential to learning outcomes.
Current laboratory experiences primarily rely on traditional microscopes and limited analytical tools, which do not provide elemental data essential for modern scientific education. The Keyence LIBS microscope will allow undergraduate and graduate students to engage in hands-on analysis of real materials (biological, geological, and synthetic), deepening comprehension of curriculum concepts such as chemical composition, material properties, and experimental design. It will support instruction in ~10 CBAS programs, reaching an estimated 210 students annually enrolled in lab-intensive courses. Furthermore, the instrument will be incorporated into lab modules, capstone projects, and interdisciplinary research experiences, directly aligning with TAF’s mission to provide direct student benefit through high-technology laboratory equipment that enhances instruction. Funding this acquisition will position MTSU at the forefront of experiential scientific education, preparing students for careers in research, industry, and advanced study.
The line item costs and description of the Keyence LIBS Microscope is based on Keyence Quote #13764568 with a total of $128,699.80.
