The Atomic Force Microscopy Nanosurf FlexAFM System of the Centro de Química da Madeira (CQM, University of Madeira), is the first AFM equipment in Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal. This equipment is intended for research and has as its main priority the activities/research within the scope of the ECOFIBRAS Project (MAC / 4.6D / 040) for the topographic characterization of fibers of invasive species of Macaronesia, and as part of the research activities of CQM, the study of polymer fibers and DNA films. In addition, and depending on the availability of time, the AFM equipment is open to external services (other public or private institutions).

Submit sample here (exclusively for CQM members)

THE ATOMIC FORCE MICROSCOPY TECHNIQUE

Atomic force microscopy consists of a type of high resolution microscopy at nanoscale. This technique is used for the analysis of surfaces, in order to obtain information such as topography (roughness, size), material contrast, electrical, magnetic and nanomechanical properties, and surface modification such as lithography. These analyzes can be performed on fixed samples (including biological samples), in air or in liquid medium. The principle of this technique is based on a small probe with a tip (ideally made up of a single atom) coupled to piezoelectric elements with the ability to scan the surface. During this scan, the sensed interactions between the tip and the sample surface atoms are translated into probe deflection / amplitude / frequency variations, which depend on the tip-to-sample distance, that is, whether the interactions are attractive or repulsive. These small variations are then converted, for example, into image, force maps or force curves. The AFM technique has been used in many different areas, such as Biological / Materials Science and Nanomanipulation.

EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS

The Nanosurf FlexAFM combined with the C3000 controller is a fully developed research system to perform AFM analysis on its own, or be coupled to inverted microscopes for combination / complementation of results.

AFM System:

• C3000 controller: high speed acquisition signal, dynamic digital filters, real-time monitoring, digital data processing at 24-bit ADC/DAC, FPGA module and processor.

- Specification:

X/Y slope correction

Force-distance, amplitude-distance, phase-distance spectroscopy, tip current-tip voltage

Setup Wizard for spectroscopy

• I100 scan head interface.
• FlexAFM scan head: speed, linearity, flatness, analysis in air and liquid.

- Specifications:

Sample maximum dimensions: 100 mm x 9 mm (width x height)

Manual Approach: 30 mm

Scanning area: 100 μm (XY-range)

Height: 10 μm (Z-range)

Tripod stand-alone scan head with tip scanner

Piezo-based Z-actuator, Optical Z-position sensor and Closed loop Z-control

Low noise photodiode detector (4 quadrant)

Automatic and manual on/off laser (red and near-infrared)

Approach with continuous DC-motor

Automatic self-alignment for probes and magnetic alignment of probe holder

- Operation modes:

Static Force, Dynamic Force, Phase Contrast, Magnetic Force, Electric Force, Basic Spectroscopy, Basic Lithography, Spreading resistance, Force Modulation, Espetroscopia avançada, Litografia avançada

• FlexAFM Video Camera:

- Specifications:

color (3.1 MP, top view)

monochrome (1.3 MP, side view)

Simultaneous display of top/side view, 4x digital zoom in three steps (1/2/4x)

• Cantilever holders (for air and air/liquid).
• Cantilever exchange tool.
• FlexAFM Sample stage (EasyClean 2 FlexAFM Sample Stage): vibration isolation and reproducible scan head alignment.
• IsoStage: anti-vibration stage optimized for FlexAFM.
• Micrometer Translational stage: 3 mm in each direction (XY)
• Nanosurf Acoustic Enclosures: acoustic isolation, air, light and electrical perturbations during analysis.

Informatic system:

• Hardware:

Computer  HP  Pro A Microtower Business

Intel i5 (8th gen) processor

500 GB disc, 4GB RAM.

Monitor/flat screen TFT de 23''

• Software:

64-bit Windows 10 Professional operating system.

Nanosurf C3000 Controller software v. 3.8

-Provides all functions for the microscope operation during surface analysis, other more advanced operation modes, data analysis for further data processing..

The Scanning Probe Image Processor, SPIP(TM) v. 6.4.4

- Proessing and analysis of microscope images, extraction and analysus of image data.

Gwyddion

- Visualization and analysis of AM data such as dimensions,, image processing, profilometric or topographic data analysis, complex image analysis.

AtomicJ

- Analysis of force data, image and force curves, spectroscopy maps.

Layout Editor

- Graphical vector design for lithography.

CQM's AFM Equipment

MANAGEMENT OF THE AFM EQUIPMENT

Project Manager: João Rodrigues (PI)

Unit Manager: Rita Castro (PhD)

Authorized Users: Rita Castro (PhD)

Responsibilities

Unit Manager:

• Responsible for equipment management, approval of analysis/reports/quotations and consumables acquisition.
• Responsible for equipment operation

Authorized Users/researchers:

• Responsible for equipment operation.
• Make quarterly reports on the operation of the unit. Send to the Unit Manager and supervisor.
• Responsible for the preparation of the equipment reservation/operation time according to the norms of operation of the center.
• Make recommendations to UM about updating or purchasing material in order to ensure an efficient service.

Applicant:

• Responsible for time reservation of the equipment and services cost.
• Fill the sample registration form and the registration logbook in accordance with the Center's operating rules.
• In case of doubt or to request information, please contact us at .

Regulation of operation of the AFM equipment

General Guidelines

These Guidelines are intended to be a guide to the authorised users and applicants that uses the CQM AFM equipment and as such must be followed by all. Otherwise, the access to use the microscope will be denied.

• The right to use the equipment, complying with the established rules, in accordance with the terms approved by the Center.
• THE OPERATION OF THE AFM EQUIPMENT IS ONLY AUTHORIsED TO THE RESPONSIBLE RESEARCHERS, AFOREMENTIONED.
• Only authorized users will be granted access to the microscope. In order to be authorized to use the equipment, EVERYONE must first receive training even if you are already familiar with the technique.
• The user is responsible for damages and/or malfunctions in the equipment that is affected by it, if not covered by the warranty and insurance;
• The user should keep the equipment in good working order.
• The user needs to provide the guarantees, when required, to safeguard the damages and/or faults in the equipment;
• The user should ALWAYS register the analysis performed in the Logbook.
• The user should report in the Logbook, any problem with the equipment or software and inform the Unit Manager as soon as possible.
• The applicants should submit an analysis request by filling on line the sample registration form, as detailed as possible, to proceed the AFM sample analysis, upon approval by the Unit Manager. Be advised that your supervisor has to be informed of your AFM registration in advance.
• Remember that your supervisor WILL ALWAYS PAY for the equipment operation time and possible damages.
• The final cost of each analysis takes into account the: maintenance costs, analysis type, total user time and user type (academic or industrial). Additional costs may be necessary, as the applicant will be informed in advance and will be applied after its approval. For details about prices and charges applied, check our price table.
• If there is a reservation made YOU HAVE TO RESPECT IT, even if it is an emergency. Don't start an analysis unless there is enough time to finish it before the next person. In the same manner, DO NOT schedule an analysis just moments before you need, plan your time properly or wait for an opening. For more information on time reservation, please contact us at .
• AFM samples must be properly labeled and should be removed from the AFM sample holder after the analysis is finished. Unlabeled samples will be disposed off.

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) services

Guidelines for samples preparation and features

• The optimum conditions of the sample (s) for analysis must be guaranteed by the applicant. Any treatment needed for the analysis will have additional costs, and the applicant will be informed in advance.
• The sample surface must be completely clean, free of dust or particles (use of compressed air).
• The sample surface must be completely clean, free from adsorbed substances such as oils due to handling (use of compatible cleaning solvents such as ultrapure water, ethanol or acetone). ADDITIONAL COSTS.
• If the sample is incompatible with organic solvents, it should be cleaned in an ultrasonic bath. ADDITIONAL COSTS.
• Samples must have maximum dimensions of 100 mm x 9 mm (length x height).
• Measurements in liquid media must not exceed 6 mm of liquid above the sample surface and it must be adsorbed to a surface. Suspended particles are not allowed.
• If the sample has properties that are not compatible with the normal operation of the AFM equipment (high roughness level and/or contamination), the applicant will be informed. If you insist on the analysis and this leads to increased use of consumables or the additional loss of AFM probes, this will have ADDITIONAL COSTS.

Price table

The user fees here presented are intended to cover CQM AFM expenses, which includes sample preparation, analysis, data treatment, technical support, parts and equipment maintenance. Minimum time request of 5 hours. After 5 hours, the session will be charged in blocks of 1 hour.

The services are classified by users and type of analysis. Choose the class that are best suited to your case or consult us at the address:.

The price of services provided is divided into three classes, namely:

1. CQM Research groups
2. FCT National Centers and National Public Laboratories
3. Companies and private Research Centers

Services charges - Price per hour (€/h)*

AFM Analysis type		Class 1	Class 2	Class 3
Basic AFM	Topography and Force Spectroscopy	€ 56.00	€ 76.00	€ 85.00
Advanced AFM	Magnetic, Conductive	€ 64.00	€ 85.00	€ 93.00
	Lithography	€ 68.00	€ 89.00	€ 97.00
Special Probe	Operation in Liquid	€ 68.00	€ 89.00	€ 97.00
	High Resolution (air / liquid)	€ 100.00	€ 115.00	€ 125.00

(prices: VAT not included, please add tax at rate of 22%).

* Minimum time: 5h. The purchase of service hours packs will benefit of discount. 5% and 10% discount for 20 and
30-hour packs, respectively. Only applied for Classes 2 and 3.

Scheduling AFM

To access the Atomic Force Microscopy service, provided by CQM, follow the sample preparation guide and the regulation available above. If you are not a member of CQM and would like to do AFM reviews, please contact us at .

Submit sample here (exclusively for CQM members)

After submitting the form, you will receive an email in your mailbox with the indication that your registration was successful and with the filled form attached.

Acknowledgements

The Principal Investigator and CQM acknowledges for the financial support of the MAC 2014-2020 Territorial Cooperation Program through the European Regional Development Fund (FEDER) under the ECOFIBRAS Project (Sustainable exploitation of Macaronesia invasive plant species for industrial fibers, MAC/4.6 D/040).

The CQM NMR laboratory

The Nuclear Magnet Laboratory of the Centro de Química da Madeira (CQM, University of Madeira) is integrated in the national NMR network and its main objectives is to support research being performed in the centre. Other important duties include the training of researchers and students integrated on the Biochemistry (BSc and MSc) and Nanochemistry and Nanotechnology (MSc) degrees. Furthermore, the CQM NMR lab is open to external service (private or other public institutions) providing as well as to other members of the national network.

NMR equipment

The equipment installed in CQM/UMa within the National Program for Scientific Re-equipment/FCT (POCI2010/FEDER) integrates the Portuguese Nuclear  Magnetic Resonance Network and was upgraded in 2018 under the scope of PROEQUIPRAM (M1420-01-0145-FEDER-000008) under the Madeira14-20 Program.

The rules of access and use of equipment, and the rights and obligations of users are regulated by a Model Management (PDF in Portuguese), agreed amongst all participants in the network, and by the regulation of the Unit operation (RFU). Please also check the general guidelines if you are interested in using this equipment.

Project reference: REDE/1517/RMN/2005, PTNMR 2013

Co-funding: PROEQUIPRAM (M1420-01-0145-FEDER-000008) Funded by: Madeira14-20 (Autosampler SampleXpress Lite; NMR workstation with TOPSPIN)

Project Manager: João Rodrigues (PI)

Unit Technician: Dina Maciel (MSc) 

 

 

Equipment: B2-Spectrometer Research and Teaching of Low Field

• NMR Spectrometer  of 400 MHz (UltraShield™ 400 Plus ULTRA LONG HOLD)
• Console AVANCE 400 II+
• BBO Probehead 5 mm with actively shielded single axis Z-Gradient and ATM Accessory for automatic tuning and matching of all nuclei (Variable temperature range: -150°C to +180°C), two channel (¹H, observe channel X-nucleus covers frequency range from ³¹P to ¹⁰⁹Ag).

Accessories

• Bruker Digital Temperature Controller for temperatures above room temperature up to 180°C (Temperature stability : +/- 0.1 °C)
• Low temperature accessory with 26I LN² dewar, heat exchanger and PUR transfer line for operation  with dry N² gas (Low temperature limit ca. -150 °C with 5mm probeheads and B-ST)
• Autosampler SampleXpress Lite (installed in 2018) with a carousel that can hold up to 16 samples and allows easy sample submission and convenient handling of experiments in batch mode 
• Cryogenic reservoir with 50 L capacity from Cryo Diffusion.
• Filtration hood, model Chemfree 2000 90-M, from Faster, Certified by UNI EN ISO 9001:2000
• Mainframe (installed in 2018) HP Worksation Z440

Software

• NMR workstation with TOPSPIN (upgraded in 2018 from version 2.1 to 3.5.7), ICON NMR, NMRSIM and NMR Guide software running on Windows 10. 

The NMR Technique

The NMR technique is based on the behaviour of atomic nuclei under the influence of a magnetic field. It is commonly used in medicine (magnetic resonance imaging) as well as in chemistry, biochemistry and materials for the structural elucidation and/or quantification of chemical compounds.

Depending on the basic equipment set-up (including the probe head) and on the accessories, the NMR can be used for research and development, and also routinely for qualitative and quantitative analysis:

• Qualitative analysis: identification of unknown compounds or mixtures;
• Quantitative analysis: determining the purity of samples or mixtures.

Applications

• Identification of unknown compounds: formulation and quality control, certification of authenticity of products, characterization of the purity of a compound, forensic research in the field of fraud or crimes against public health.
• Characterization of new compounds: research and development of new compounds for applications in areas ranging from medicine, environment, natural products to nanomaterials.

Some examples of technological routine applications

• Food industry: identification and characterization of oils and fats;
• Pharmaceutical industry: identification and structural characterization of new compounds and natural products for biomedical application;
• Industry of paints and plastics: identification and characterization of structural polymers.

If you are not affiliated with CQM/UMa and would like to perform NMR characterization, please contact us (cqmnmr"at"gmail.com) and check the pricing.

General guidelines

These Guidelines are intended to be fair to everyone that uses the CQM NMR equipment and as such must be followed by all.

Users that repeatedly violate these guidelines will be banned from using the spectrometer.

• Only authorized users will be granted access to the spectrometer. In order to be authorised to use the equipment EVERYONE must first receive training even if you are already familiar with the technique. This is to filter out users that might be afraid to say they can't use the equipment.
• New users must register requesting, to the Unity Manager (GU/UM ), the user login/password and fill a proper New User registration Form (NUF). Be advised that your supervisor has to be informed of your NMR registration before hand. E-mail for queries: cqmnmr"at"gmail.com
• Use what you know how to use! Curiosity is good, but not with a 278k € equipment. Be responsible !
• Remember that your supervisor may have to pay for your user time. As such you have to PROPERLY register your experiment time on the CQM NMR Calendar (guide). If you fail to do so, you will be banned!
• The final cost of each experiment takes into account the: maintenance costs, experiment type, total user time and user type (academic or industrial). For details about prices and charges applied, check our price table.
• If there is a reservation made on the calendar YOU HAVE TO RESPECT IT, even if it is an emergency. Don't start an experiment unless there is enough time to finish it before the next person. In the same manner, DO NOT schedule an experiment just moments before you need, plan your time properly or wait for an opening. For more information on time reservation, please check the guide.
• Use YOUR Deuterated solvents, YOUR NMR tubes and YOUR new Pasteur pipettes, unless otherwise agreed between researchers. This means that you have to bring them from your lab.
• Do not mix Deuterated solvents in any condition whatsoever (e.g., for sample preparation, by using the same pipette in two different bottles).
• NMR samples must be properly labelled, and should be removed from the NMR Lab after the experiment is finished. Unlabelled samples will be disposed.
• Always register your work in the Logbook and on the CQM NMR Calendar. ALWAYS! Even if you are just checking the water in your solvent!
• Report in the Logbook, any problem with the equipment or software and inform the technician as soon as possible (personally or by email).
• Leave your metallic objects outside the room as well as magnetic cards and cell phones.
• Between experiments or during long acquisitions, put the cover on the bore.
• Keep the inner NMR Lab door closed as long as possible.

Official regulation (Portuguese) 

O regulamento de acesso e utilização do Espectrómetro de RMN de 400 MHz, instalado no CQM, ao abrigo do Programa Nacional de Re-equipamento Científico (REDE/1517/RMN/2005) adiante designado por Regulamento de Funcionamento da Unidade (RFU), assim como os direitos e deveres dos utilizadores, estão enquadrados pelo Protocolo de Colaboração para a aquisição e instalação de equipamento para a Rede Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear, pelo respectivo Modelo de Gestão /Anexo I (PDF), e pelo tarifário aplicável.

Protocolo de Colaboração para a Aquisição e Instalação de Equipamento para a Rede Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear

(extractos)

1. Cláusula Primeira

Introdução

Pretende-se a criação de uma Rede Nacional de RMN com o objectivo principal de viabilizar o acesso da comunidade científica portuguesa a espectrómetros de RMN modernos, localizados em Instituições com competência para optimizar a utilização deste equipamento pesado. Na Rede Nacional estão incluídos dois espectrómetros de campo alto, operando a 600 MHz (com crio-sonda) e 800 MHz, providenciando a aquisição de experiências com sensibilidade e resolução muito superiores às presentemente disponíveis em Portugal. Estes espectrómetros estarão equipados para executar as técnicas experimentais mais recentes e inovadoras, incluindo estudos com proteínas em solução triplamente marcadas, ou com materiais no estado sólido. A Rede Nacional permitirá também oferecer, aos utilizadores, assistência técnica ampla e de qualidade. Para além da capacidade de apoiar uma vasta gama de projectos de investigação em curso, a Rede Nacional estimulará o desenvolvimento de novas linhas de investigação em várias áreas científicas, nomeadamente biologia estrutural, ciência de materiais, desenho de fármacos, metabolómica, química de produtos naturais e ciências alimentares.

…

1. D.Cláusula Quarta

Dos Direitos e Deveres do Proponente Principal e dos Participantes no Projecto

D1. – Dos Direitos

…

• ·Direito à utilização do equipamento que lhe ficar afecto, cumprindo as regras de utilização fixadas, e a fixar, nos termos aprovados para a Rede constantes do modelo de Gestão (Anexo I);

…

D2. – Dos Deveres

• ·Compete à Instituição Participante a responsabilidade por danos e/ou avarias perpetrados no equipamento que lhe for afecto, desde que não cobertos pela garantia e seguro;
• ·Dever de prestar as garantias, quando exigidas pela Instituição Proponente, para salvaguarda dos danos e/ou avarias ocorridas no equipamento que lhes foi afecto;
• ·Permitir o acesso a todos os Investigadores da Comunidade Científica Nacional ao equipamento que lhe foi afecto, nos termos constantes no Modelo de Gestão para a Rede de RMN (Anexo I);

…

• ·Comparticipar na organização de seminários e "workshops" para assegurar que a Comunidade Científica Nacional utilize de forma optimizada as facilidades da Rede;
• ·Manter em boas condições de funcionamento os equipamentos que lhe tiverem sido afectos.

Anexo I (extractos)

Modelo de gestão de equipamentos e organização da Rede Nacional de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear

Objectivos- Gestão integrada dos espectrómetros de RMN das Unidades de Investigação e Ensino associadas a Universidades e Centros de Investigação, permitindo o seu acesso a todos os investigadores da Comunidade Científica Nacional- Informação das diferentes configurações dos espectrómetros existentes (ou que virão a existir) à Comunidade Científica- Divulgação da técnica de Ressonância Magnética Nuclear

…

Gestor de Unidade - GU

Composição- composto por um membro da Unidade

Atribuições – responsável pela gestão do(s) espectrómetro(s) integrado(s) numa Unidade da Rede. Fazer relatórios semestrais acerca do funcionamento da Unidade. Enviar ao Coordenador Geral da Rede (CGR).

• ·Recolha dos relatórios científicos elaborados pelos utilizadores da Rede (UR). Enviar ao CGR;
• ·Propor ao Comissão de Gestão (CG)através do CGRas normas de funcionamento de cada espectrómetro da sua Unidade com base nas normas gerais de funcionamento da Rede;
• ·Responsável pela elaboração dos horários de utilização de cada espectrómetro integrado na Unidade de acordo com as Normas de funcionamento da sua Unidade e as recomendações enviadas pelo CGR(depois de avaliadas pelo Painel de Avaliadores(PA ));
• ·Organizar seminários e workshops para assegurar que os utilizadores usam de uma maneira optimizada as facilidades da Rede;
• ·Fazer recomendações à CG(através do CGR) acerca da actualização ou compra de equipamento e actualização ou contratação de pessoal técnico de maneira a manter um serviço eficiente;
• ·Responsável pela divulgação da alocação do tempo da sua Unidade da Rede em local próprio a definir pelo CG(página na internet);

Observações– O GU é designado pela Unidade.

Utilizador da Rede - UR

Definição- qualquer investigador, grupo de Investigação ou Entidade que requer tempo de utilização de espectrómetros da Rede

Incumbências do UR

• ·Preencher o formulário para atribuição de tempo de RMN segundo as normas definidas pela Rede (ver normas) e enviar aoGU.
• ·Apresentar relatórios em conformidade com as normas de funcionamento do espectrómetro da Unidade utilizada, e enviar aoGU.

Observações– A apresentação de relatório será obrigatória para uma posterior utilização dos espectrómetros da Rede.

Gestão das Unidades

Espectrómetros

Os espectrómetros da Rede serão distribuídos por 3 categorias, consoante o campo magnético a que operam e os serviços que prestam

A- Espectrómetro de Investigação de Campo Alto – actualmente, 800 + 600 MHz

B1- Espectrómetro de Investigação de Campo Baixo – actualmente, 300, 400 e 500MHz

B2- Espectrómetro de Investigação e Ensino de Campo Baixo – actualmente, 300, 400 e 500MHz

Definição dos Tempos de utilização

Os tempos de utilização serão classificados em categorias, de acordo com o tipo de espectrómetro solicitado:

…

Espectrómetros do tipo B:

• §esporádico- curto (duração máxima 4h) ou longo (12h);
• §regular- alocação de % tempo frequente (com base em projecto) com duração máxima de 24h por bloco semanal;
• §prestação de Serviços a Empresas.

Normas de distribuição dos tempos de utilização- Qualquer tempo que não seja marcado segundo as regras que se seguem, ficará imediatamente alocado à Instituição que alberga o aparelho.

…

B2- Espectrómetro de Investigação e Ensino de Campo Baixo Neste caso, a distribuição de tempo deverá ser planeada semanalmente pelo GU para os tempos atribuídos à Instituição, tempos do tipo esporádico e tempos para Serviços. Os tempos atribuídos a projectos (tempo regular) deverão ser planeados mensalmente com base nas indicações do CGR. O calendário de distribuição de tempo actualizado será publicado semanalmente na página da internet pelo GU, obedecendo aos seguintes critérios:

- 80%(5,5 dias/semana) atribuído à Instituição que alberga o espectrómetro para rotina, manutenção, desenvolvimento e ensino

- 20%(1,5 dias/semana) disponível para utilizadores em geral, os quais podem aceder através do preenchimento de formulário próprio, em função do tipo de tempo pretendido, e que deverá ser distribuído da seguinte maneira, caso sejam requeridos simultaneamente os três tipos de Tempo de Utilização:

• ·Regular- alocação de % tempo durante um período longo (máximo 12h/semana). A decisão de alocação deste tempo será comunicada pelo CGRao GU.
• ·Esporádico- alocação de tempos curtos e longos (máximo 12h/semana). A decisão de alocação deste tempo será feita peloGU.
• ·Prestação de serviços/empresas (máximo 12h/semana). A decisão de alocação deste tempo será feita pelo GU.

Research applications under way in at CQM

The NMR equipment installed on CQM, within the National Program for Scientific Re-equipment, integrating the National Network of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (REDE/1517/RMN/2005) is being used as a routine tool for structural characterization of compounds in solution by researchers of CQM from the following national R&D projects, Post-Doc, PhD and Master students:

Ongoing research projects

• 5.Title: “DENDIMAGE - Development of Novel Dendrimer-Based Nanoparticles for Dual Mode Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Tumors"

Reference: PTDC/CTM-NAN/1748/2012

Funding: € 197 616

Principal Investigator: Xiangyang Shi.

• 4. Title: “Self-assembled nanoparticles based on PEG-PLA-dendrimer building blocks for dual gene/drug delivery"

 Reference: PTDC/CTM-NAN/116788/2010

 Funding: € 156 808

 Principal Investigator: Yulin Li.

• 3. Title: “CLAYCATS4 - Clay catalysts for biomass conversion"

Reference: PTDC/CTM-CER/121295/2010

Funding: € 166 696

Principal Investigator: Paula Castilho.

• 2. Title: “DENDRIMAT – New materials for drug/gene delivery based on the self-assembly of dendrimer-chitosan-single stranded DNA"

Reference: PTDC/CTM-NAN/112428/2009

Funding: € 151 251

Principal Investigator: Helena Tomás.

• 1.Title: OPUSGRAFT - Oligo(phenylene ethynylene)s Derivatives Covalently Grafted Onto Porous Silicon: Novel Hybrid Molecular/semiconductor Systems for Application as Waveguides

Reference: PTDC/CTM/098451/2008

Funding: € 168 100

Principal Investigator: João Rodrigues.

Finished research projects

• 2. Title: FUNCMETAL-functionalized metallodendrimers based on 2,4,6-tri-substituted-1 ,3,5 - triazine derivatives dore (Concluded in October 2011)

Reference: PTDC/QUI/64202/2006.

Funding: € 101 200

Principal Investigator: João Rodrigues.

• 1. Title: DENDRALGENE - Design of New Gene Delivery Vectors Based on Dendrimers, Alginate and the RGD Sequence for Bone Tissue Engineering (Concluded in September 2010)

Reference: PTDC/SAU-BEB/71161/2006.

Funding: € 175 000

Principal Investigator: Helena Tomás.

Ongoing advanced training (post-doc, Ph.D. and M.Sc.)

Post-Doc

• 1. Title: New materials for biomedical applications obtained by the self-assembly of dendrimer-single stranded DNA conjugates

Reference: SFRH/BPD/75420/2010

Name: Shili Xiao

Supervisors: Helena Tomás, João Rodrigues and Xiangyang Shi.

Masters

• 1. Title: Preparation of Low-generation metallodendrimers using nitrile-functionalized poly(alkylidenamines) dendrimers: cytotoxicity studies in cancer cell lines.

Name: Marisol Gouveia

Supervisors:João Rodrigues and Helena Tomás.

Ph.D.

• 3.Title: Octupolar heterometallic dendrimers based on 2,4,6-tris-substituted-1,3,5-triazine core derivatives for NLO applications.

Refererence: SFRH/BD/65036/2009 (started in June 2010)

Name: Manuel Jardim

Supervisors: João Rodrigues (CQM/UMa), Kari Rissanen (University of Jyväskylä/Finland) andWim Wenseleers (University of Antwerp, Belgium)

• 2. Title: Valorization of Residues From Fruit Transformation Industries in Madeira (started in 2007)

Reference: SFRH/BD/32334/2006

Name: Pedro Miguel Sena da Costa Branco

Supervisor: Paula Castilho

• 1. Title: Avaliação Fitoquímica, Antimicrobiana e Inseticida de Plantas Aromáticas da Família das Labiatae (started in 2009)

Reference: SFRH/BD/48148/2008

Name: Tatiana Sousa

Supervisor: Paula Castilho

Ciência 2008

• 1. Title: Fabrication of biodegradable and injectable nano-hydrogels with high mechanical properties and stability for tissue engineering and drug delivery.

Name: Yulin Li

Finished advanced training (post-doc, Ph.D. and M.Sc.)

Post-doc

• 3. Título: Novel Drug/gene/delivery Platforms Based on the Self-Assembly of Dendrimer-single Strand DNA Conjugates

Name:  Deepti Pandita

Reference: Post-doc Grant SFRH/BPD/44821/2008

Supervisor:Helena Tomás, co-supervisors: João Rodrigues and Miguel Xavier Fernandes.

• 2. Title: FUNCMETAL-Functionalized Metallodendrimers Based on 2,4,6-tri-substituted-1,3,5-triazine Core Derivatives (concluído em 2009)

Reference: PTDC/QUI/64202/2006

Name: Swarup Maiti

 Supervisor: João Rodrigues

• 1. Title: Biomimetic Preparation of Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles Using Dendrimers as Templates – Application On Gene Delivery (a iniciar em Outubro de 2009)

Reference: SFRH/BPD/47369/2008

Name: Aliresa Nouri

 Supervisor: Helena Tomás.

Ph.D.

•  3. Title: New metallomolecular wires based on carbon-rich bridging systems - a systematic study.

 Reference: SFRH/BD/29325/2006

 Name: João Figueira

 Supervisors: João Rodrigues (CQM/UMa) and Kari Rissanen (University of Jyväskylä/Finland).

• 2. Title: Phytochemical studies of bioactive Asteraceae plants endemic from Madeira Archipelago.

Reference: SFRH/BD/24227/2005

Name: Sandra Cristina Gonçalves Gouveia

Supervisor: Paula Castilho (CQM/UMa)

• 1. Title: Bone Tissue Engineering Via Local Gene Delivery (2005-2009)

Reference: SFRH/BD/19450/2004/NG2H

Name: José Luís Santos

Supervisor: Helena Tomás

Masters

• 7. Title: Multilayered Core/Shell Nanoparticles of FeOX/Au/Ag

Name: Carla Miguel

Supervisors: João Rodrigues and Helena Tomás.

• 6. Title: Polímeros condutores em monocamadas automontadas para a determinação de compostos de interesse ambiental

Name: Cláudia Camacho

Supervisores:José Carlos Mesquita eJoão Rodrigues.

1. 5. Title: Coating of Implant Biomaterials Through the Layer-by-Layer Technique.

Name: Daniel Bezerra de Lima

Supervisors:Helena Tomás and João Rodrigues.

• 4. Title: New Dendrimer-based Vectors for Antisense Therapy.

Name: Rita Castro

Supervisors:Helena Tomás e João Rodrigues.

• 3. Title: Avaliação do Efeito dos Dendrímeros na Diferenciação de Células Estaminais Mesenquimatosas

Name: Mara Gonçalves

Supervisors: Helena Tomás.

• 2. Title: Isolamento e caracterização de princípios activos da Madre de Louro e de Lauraceas da Madeira

Nome: Maria João Menezes de Carvalho

Supervisor: Paula Castilho.

• 1. Título: Encapsulation of Single hMSCs in Polyelectrolyte shells - Preliminary Studies

Name: Neide Freitas

Supervisor: Helena Tomás and João Rodrigues.

Price list

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Service (NMR 400 MHz)

REDE/1517/RMN/2005

The price of services provided is divided into three classes, namely:

1. National Centres FCT (Tariff A)
2. Regional and National Public Laboratories (Tariff B)
3. Companies and Laboratories or private Research Centres (Tariff C)

Choose the classes that are best suited to your case or consult us using the address: cqmnmr "at" gmail.com

Short duration experiments	Class A	Class B	Class C
Proton	€ 1.00	€ 1.50	€ 2.50
Proton and Phosphorus	€ 1.25	€ 2.00	€ 3.25
Proton and Carbon	€ 2.00	€ 3.00	€ 5.00
Proton, Carbon and Phosphorus	€ 2.50	€ 3.75	€ 6.25
Other Cores	Request a Quote
Hour	€ 4.00	€ 8.00	€ 12.00
Night	€ 12.00	€ 48.00	€ 72.00
Day	€ 30.00	€ 90.00	€ 135.00
24 h	€ 45.00	€ 135.00	€ 202.50
Weekend (48 h)	€ 75.00	€ 225.00	€ 337.50
Long duration experiments	Class A / B / C
Diluted carbons (Total decoupling of protons, registration, list of frequencies, integrations and extensions)	According to time spent
Other Cores	Request a Quote
NOE Experiments (registration, list of frequencies, integrations)	According to time spent
Two-dimensional experiment (registration, list of frequencies, integrations and extensions)	According to time spent
Variable temperature experiment (registration, list of frequencies, integrations and extensions)	According to time spent
Time cost to be added to the cost of experiment	Class A	Class B	Class C
One hour (day)	€ 2.40	€ 24.00	€ 36.00
One hour (night)	€ 1.20	€ 12.00	€ 18.00
One day	€ 30.00	€ 150.00	€ 225.00
Measures at low temperature	Class A / B / C
25 litres of liquid N2 for 7 hours of work	€ 50.00

Prices excluding VAT and without analysis results. For other specific techniques of NMR or additional information consult us by e-mail: cqmnmr"at"gmail.com

Analyses request forms

Pease request using the e-mail:

Occupation calendar and reserve of use time

The CQM NMR Calendar is visible bellow. You will need to read its guide in order to use the equipment.

Open Calendar in another window: CQM NMR Calendar

NMR training

CQM NMR Lab has been involved in the lecturing of NMR courses that aim to train and prepare the CQM researchers for the usage of the NMR equipment as well as any interested from outside the centre.

3RD CQM NMR COURSE - DECEMBER 2013 (TENTATIVELY)

2nd Edition of NMR course: “short theoretical and practical introduction in the NMR technique (25 participants)”

 

1st Edition of NMR course: "short theoretical and practical introduction in the NMR technique (15 participants)"

The Flow Cytometer NovoCyte® 3000 + NovoSampler® Pro (ACEA Bioscience) of Madeira Chemistry Research Center (CQM, University of Madeira) was acquired under the CQM+ Operation financed by the Madeira Program 14-20 (ARDITI - M1420-01-0145-FEDER-000005 - CQM+ - Centro de Química da Madeira) and has the purpose of improving the facilities and installed capacity of the CQM and the activities included in the different projects that constitute the CQM+ Operation. In addition, the equipment is open to external service (private or other public institutions).

To access the Flow Cytometry service provided by CQM, please click here to submit your sample and follow the available instructions.

Description

This equipment is the first in the Region fully dedicated to research in the field of Health and Biochemistry which has 3 lasers (405 nm, 488 nm, 640 nm) and 13 channels of fluorescence detection, and is at the service of CQM researchers, through access regulation and user platform, for the study of anticancer and anti-infective compounds under development in this national research unit.

The Flow Cytometry technique

Flow cytometry is a technique used to count, examine and classify microscopic particles, for example cells. This technique allows the simultaneous analysis of several parameters, being able to analyze physical and/or chemical characteristics (eg. size, morphological complexity, fluorescence, etc.) of several cells in each second and in real time. This technique is widely used in oncohematologic diagnosis (eg. neoplastic cell detection, cell cycle analysis,...), for cell proliferation studies and cell quantification.

Equipment specifications

Optics System: Lasers and Detectors

The NovoCyte 3000 System features an optical system with three independent solid-state lasers and an optics that ensures maximum sensitivity and resolution while minimizing the loss of light in each channel. The optical system configuration of the equipment is as follows:

Blue Laser:

• Emission at 488 nm.
• 5 Fluorescence Parameters. Example of standard parameters: FITC, PE, PE-Texas Red, PerCP, PE-Cy7.
• 2 Scatter Parameters: Forward Scatter (FSC) and Side Scatter (SSC).

Red Laser:

• Emission at 640 nm.
• 2 Fluorescence Parameter. Example of standard parameters: APC and APC-Cy7.

Violet Laser:

• Emission at 405 nm.
• 6 Fluorescence Parameters: Examples of standard parameters: Pacific Blue, V500, Pacific Orange, Qdot 605, Qdot 655 and Qdot 800.

In total, the system is capable of simultaneously analyze up to 15 parameters: 13 fluorescence and 2 scattering, FSC and SSC.

Particle detection range: 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

Fluidics System:

The NovoCyte 3000 equipment monitors the flow state of the cytometer in real time through pressure sensors, minimizing the possibility of clogging during data acquisition.

Auto sampler NovoSampler® Pro:

The NovoCyte 3000 has a sample injection system through a high precision syringe. The equipment includes an auto sampler with protocols of agitation, mixing and automatic alignment, allowing to work with the following types of tubes:

• Standard tubes of cytometry 12 x 75 mm.
• 24/48/96 well plates with flat, U or V bottoms.

Acquisition speed:

• Acquisition speed: 35,000 events/second
• Sample flow rate: 5-120 μl/min

Cleaning system and elimination of bubbles:

The NovoCyte 3000 cytometer is equipped with automatic cleaning, decontamination and bubble elimination functions, which help the maintenance of the system, avoiding the long cleaning protocols. The user can also individually select any of these daily cleaning functions on the same taskbar.

The liquid sensing sensors warn the user when the liquid levels used by the cytometer are too low, thereby preventing air from entering the system.

Computer system:

Hardware:

• Next-generation computer Dell OptiPlex 7010/7020 SFF with capacity for data acquisition and processing.
• Intel Core i7 processor.
• 24" TFT flat screen.

Software:

• 64-bit Windows 7 professional operating system.
• NovoExpress™ Flow Cytometer Software.
• Files exportation in Flow Cytometry Standard 3.0 format, in CSV format and in Batch mode.
• Compatibility with files acquired in other cytometers.
• Ability to analyze multiple files simultaneously.
• Very simple handling with a simple graphic interface.
• Automatic protocol for switching the equipment on/off (without user intervention).
• Automatic cleaning control.
• Automatic cell cycle analysis system.
• Manual compensation and self-compensation capability.

Quality Control System:

The NovoCyte 3000 cytometer features a function to automatically perform Quality Control tests. Through this type of tests, the user has daily information of the state of the equipment.

NovoCyte® 3000 + NovoSampler® Pro Flow Cytometer (ACEA Bioscience) of Centro de Química da Madeira

Registration and scheduling of cytometer

To access the Flow Cytometry service provided by CQM, please click here to submit your sample and follow the available instructions.

Management team

Project Manager: João Rodrigues (PI)

Unit Manager: Mara Gonçalves (PhD)  

Authorized Users: Mara Gonçalves (PhD) and Filipe Olim (MSc) 

Acknowledgements

CQM acknowledges Madeira 14-20 Program and ARDITI-Agência Regional para o Desenvolvimento da Investigação Tecnologia e Inovação, through the project M1420-01-0145-FEDER-000005 - Centro de Química da Madeira - CQM+ (Madeira 14-20).

The Scanning Electron Microscopy of the Centro de Química da Madeira (CQM, University of Madeira) main objective is to support research at the Centre, being used as a routine tool for surface characterization of samples surfaces by researchers of CQM from the following national R&D projects; Post-Doc, PhD and Biochemistry (BSc and MSc) and Nanochemistry and Nanomaterials (MSc) students. Furthermore, the CQM SEM is open to external service (private or other public institutions).

Submit Sample (CQM members only)

Scanning Electron Microscopy technique

In the SEM technique, a focused electron beam causes electron emissions from the sample surface that are measured and spatially imaged. It is commonly used in Materials chemistry, in Chemistry, and Biochemistry for the structural characterization of surfaces; topography and/or quantification of chemical compounds.

Analytical services

• Secondary electron imaging
• Backscattered electron imaging
• Elemental analysis including X-ray mapping
• Particle counting and sizing
• Fiber analysis
• 3D roughness reconstruction
• Specialized sample preparation

Applications

The possibility of direct observation of structures through scanning electron microscopy allows an important correlation between processing and properties of materials. The study of the nature of material’s surfaces is relevant for natural products, nanomaterials and many scientific fields such as medicine, environment, microelectronics, or mechanical engineering because many properties of materials are determined precisely by their surfaces and interfaces.

The SEM is routinely used to generate high-resolution images of object’s shapes and to show spatial variations in chemical compositions.

SEM equipment

The equipment is installed in CQM/UMa under its strategic funding - Project reference: UID/QUI/00674/2013.

Supervisor: João Rodrigues (PI)

Unit Manager: Rita Castro (PhD)

Autorized User (UT): Rita Castro (PhD) e Carla Miguel (MSc)

Applicant: Any researcher, research group or Entity (public or private)

Management of the equipment and organization - Responsabilities

Unit Manager

- Responsible for equipment management, approval of analysis/reports/quotations and consumables aquisition.

- Responsible for equipment operation.

Autorized User

- Responsible for equipment operation.

- Make quarterly reports on the functioning of the Unit. Send to Unit Manager.

- Responsible for the preparation of the equipment reservation/operation time according to the norms of operation of the center.

- Make recommendations to UM about updating or purchasing material in order to ensure an efficient service.

Applicant

- Responsible for time reservation of the equipment and services cost.

- Fill the sample registration  form and the registration logbook in accordance with the Center's operating rules.

TYPE OF EQUIPMENT

Bench SEM Microscope Phenom - Pro X

Scanning electron Microscope with qualitative and quantitative analysis of the sample chemical composition by EDS (Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy).

EDS specifications

Range of detected elements: from Boron (Z=5) to Americium (Z=95)

Detector:

- Silicon Drift Detector (SDD)
- Cooled by Peltier effect

Lenses

Optical - magnification: 20-135x

Electronic - Magnification: 80-135 000x

Lighting

Optical - LEDs

Electronic - CeB6 thermionic source ("Gun"). Voltage: 5, 10 and 15 KV adjustable from 4.8 KV in steps of 1 KV. Resolution=<10nm at 10 KV.

Detectors of image

Optical

Electronic:

• BSD (high sensitivity backscattered electrons detector)

• SED (secondary electron detector)

Accessories

• Rotary knob
• Sample holders
  • standard [Máximum sample size: 25mm (Ø) x 30mm (height)]
  • with charge reduction [ Máximum sample size: 25mm (Ø) x 30mm (height)]
  • with temperature control [Máximum sample size: 25mm (Ø) x 5mm (height)]
• Keypad controller

Software

• Windows 7 PRO LCP
• ProSuite image acquisition, processing, and analysis

Infrastructure Requirements

• Power Supply
• Pre-Vacuum pump
• Chiller Unit

---

Regulation of operation of the SEM equipment

General Guidelines

These Guidelines are intended to be a guide to the autorized users and applicants that uses the CQM SEM equipment and as such must be followed by all. Otherwise, the access to use the microscope will be denied.

• The right to use the equipment, complying with the established rules, in accordance with the terms approved by the Center.
• The user is responsible for damages and/or malfunctions in the equipment that is affected by it, if not covered by the warranty and insurance;
• The user needs to provide the guarantees, when required, to safeguard the damages and/or faults in the equipment;
• The user should keep the equipment in good working order.

• THE OPERATION OF THE SEM EQUIPMENT IS ONLY AUTHORIZED TO THE RESPONSIBLE RESEARCHERS, AFOREMENTIONED.
• Only authorized users will be granted access to the microscope. In order to be authorized to use the equipment, EVERYONE must first receive training even if you are already familiar with the technique.

• ALWAYS register your work in the Logbook.
• Report in the Logbook, any problem with the equipment or software and inform the UT as soon as possible.
• The applicants should submit an analysis request by filling on line the sample registration form, as detailed as possible, to proceed the SEM sample analysis, upon approval by the Unit Manager. Be advised that your supervisor has to be informed of your SEM registration in advance.
• Please be responsible and careful. Curiosity is good, but not with an expensive equipment.
• Remember that your supervisor WILL PAY for your usage time and possible damages.
• The final cost of each analysis takes into account the: maintenance costs, analysis type, total user time and user type (academic or industrial). For details about prices and charges applied, check our price table.
• If there is a reservation made YOU HAVE TO RESPECT IT, even if it is an emergency. Don't start an analysis unless there is enough time to finish it before the next person. In the same manner, DO NOT schedule an analysis just moments before you need, plan your time properly or wait for an opening. For more information on time reservation, please contact 
• SEM samples must be properly labeled and should be removed from the SEM sample holder after the analysis is finished. Unlabeled samples will be disposed of.

Scanning Electron Microscopy Services

The user fees are intended to cover CQM SEM expenses, which includes the analysis, consumables, parts, and maintenance. Minimum time of 1 hour. After 1 hour, the session will be charged in blocks of 30 minutes.

Choose the class that are best suited to your case or consult us using the address: .

The price of services provided is divided into three classes, namely:

1. CQM Research groups
2. FCT National Centers and National Public Laboratories
3. Companies and private Research Centers

	Class 1	Class 2	Class 3
Analytical Services (€ / h)*	€ 35.00	€ 60.00	€ 100.00
Specialized sample preparation	Included in the time of analysis

(prices: VAT not included, please add tax at rate of 22%) 

* The purchase of service hours packs will benefit of discount. 5% and 10% discount for 10 and 20-hour packs, respectively. Only applied for Classes 2 and 3.

Service Packs
Service cost (€ / h)	Class 1	Class 2	Class 3
Pack5 (5 h)	-	€ 60.00	€ 100.00
Pack10 (10 h)	-	€ 57.00	€ 95.00
Pack20 (20 h)	-	€ 54.00	€ 90.00

Schedule Scanning Electron Microscopy Service

To access the Scanning Electron Microscopy Service, please fill the sample registration form. If you are not a CQM member and would like to perform SEM analysis, please contact us via and check the pricing list.

Submit Sample

After the form submission, you will receive in your mail box an email confirming the successful sample registration and the filled form.