One goal of applied plant science: keeping people fed and healthy in a rapidly changing world. That takes basic research, such as a recent study by scientists at U Manchester in the United Kingdom. They investigated the temporal uptake and distribution of trace amounts of iron (Fe) into wheat grain — and found something unexpected in their samples’ bran layer cells…
The work depended on their CAMECA NanoSIMS. This unique, high-performance ion microprobe/secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS) combines exceptional spatial resolution — which allows subcellular mapping — with excellent elemental sensitivity and isotope detection. These capabilities make it an important tool for applications including plant science, cell biology, materials research, environmental microbiology, geology, and space science.
The analytical team at U Manchester also performs more traditional material sciences work, such as studying embrittlement of metal alloys used in critical construction work.
Our short success story outlines both areas of study. Which one is closest to your unique application? What could a CAMECA NanoSIMS discover in your lab?