Carleton University has received funding for a first-in-Canada, high-energy X-ray machine for Earth material research. Fred Gaidies, assistant professor in the Department of Earth Sciences, was awarded $185,000 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) today.
Gaidies’ research aims to unravel the fundamental atomic-scale processes that govern the formation of rocks. Direct applications of that research will improve the quantification of the ore potential of rocks, the analysis of the rocks’ pore structure relevant for oil and gas storage and water transport, and the imaging and examination of rock fractures and their potential for transport of contaminants such as nuclear waste and heavy metals. In the long term, this research will impact how scientists interpret the structures and dynamics of the interior of Earth with important implications for the prediction of earthquakes.
The X-ray machine, known as a tomography scanner, is “broadly applicable technology,” explains Gaidies, “as it allows the non-destructive study of the interior of any solid material at ultra-high resolution. It is of interest to paleontologists who investigate the morphology and evolution of fossils, but it can also be used by oncologists as quality control of material used in hip replacements, or by researchers who design composite materials in aerospace engineering.”
Carleton’s funding was among $33 million announced by CFI for research and infrastructure in Canada.
“Canadians from coast to coast to coast can be assured that Canada’s research community is bringing its talents to bear on the problems that matter to them,” said Gilles G. Patry, CFI president and chief executive officer. “This round of investment illustrates the value of research and innovation in building stronger, healthier and more prosperous communities.”
About Carleton University:
Carleton University is a dynamic, interdisciplinary research institution located in Ottawa—Canada’s capital. Carleton is proud of its game-changing research in the sciences, business, engineering, arts and public administration; and has realized research partnerships with numerous public and private sector organizations. Its strengths in health, digital media, globalization and global identities, and environment and sustainability, among others, have led to international recognition for its faculty, as well as an ability to attract outstanding students.
About CFI:
Created by the Government of Canada in 1997, the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) strives to build our nation’s capacity to undertake world-class research and technology development to benefit Canadians through investments in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment in universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions.
For more information:
Caitlin Kealey
Media Relations
Carleton University
613-520-2600, ext. 8718
Caitlin_Kealey@carleton.ca
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