SMAST Seminar - DEOS - "From Methane to Microplastics: Developing Next Generation In Situ Instrumentation" by: Beckett Colson

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 12:30pm to 1:30pm

Department of Estuarine and Ocean Sciences

"From Methane to Microplastics: Developing Next Generation In Situ Instrumentation "

Beckett Colson
Research Engineer, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Wednesday, April 16, 2025
12:30pm-1:30pm
SMAST E 101-102 and via Zoom

Abstract:

Marine and freshwater processes have global impacts but are challenging to observe due to the range of spatial scales, environmental conditions, and temporal variability. In the Chemical Sensors Laboratory (CSL) at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, we develop in situ instrumentation to reveal these processes by making continuous measurements directly in the environment. These instruments can deliver unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution. This seminar will focus on two instruments we have recently developed: (1) SAGE for measuring deep-sea methane and carbon dioxide, and (2) Scout for quantifying microplastics in waterways. SAGE uses laser spectroscopy with a membrane inlet to quantify dissolved methane and pCO2, and a hollow-core fiber absorption cell to minimize dead volume and achieve a time response of only four minutes. SAGE has been deployed in a variety of deep-sea environments, from hydrothermal vents to cold seeps and mud volcanoes. Scout uses electrical impedance to detect, size, and count microplastics in a continuous water flow. It uses the unique electrical characteristics of microplastics to distinguish them from naturally occurring particulates. Scout has been used locally for surface water measurements, and we are developing a next generation suitable for use on autonomous and underwater platforms. With continued improvements to these instruments, we aim to unlock more avenues for scientific inquiry and collaboration. 

Join Zoom Meeting
https://umassd.zoom.us/j/97440069270?pwd=L2Z1bDZESTFCKzJYZWduYVhWenYvZz09

Note: Meeting passcode required, email contact below to receive

To request the Zoom passcode, or for any other questions, please email Callie Rumbut

SMAST East 101-102 : 836 S. Rodney French Blvd., New Bedford MA 02744
Callie Rumbut
c.rumbut@umassd.edu
https://umassd.zoom.us/j/97440069270?pwd=L2Z1bDZESTFCKzJYZWduYVhWenYvZz09