Author: eafraki

ACMAL Holiday Hours

ACMAL will have limited hours over the upcoming holiday break.

This week, users can access the lab Monday through Friday during normal business hours. We ask that newly trained users make appointments with their trainers during this period so someone is near in case there are troubles.

The university will be closed December 25th – January 1st. Unrestricted users will have unlimited access to the building and labs. 

I am out of the office from December 11 through January 2nd. During this period, if you encounter any issues or have any questions, please reach out to the following contacts:

  • For X-ray Facility questions, please contact
  • For Electron Optics Facility questions or sample preparation, please contact
  • For Scanning Probe Microscopy (AFM) & Surface Analysis (XPS) Facilities questions, please reach out to
  • For Confocal Imaging Facility questions, please contact
    • Dr. Marina Tanasova at 906-487-1163 or email mtanasov@mtu.edu (Cell Culture Lab & Flow Cytometer)
  • In case of an emergency, call public safety by dialing 911.

These individuals, as experts in their respective areas, will be able to assist you promptly. However, please note that for general inquiries or matters not specific to a particular area, it is best to contact me upon my return.

I have complete confidence in the ACMAL team’s abilities to handle any issues that may arise during my absence. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. I will be sure to get back to you promptly upon my return.

Wishing you all continued success with your research.

For STEM users – Analysis Request forms

I have discontinued the “Intake Sample Request” form.

If you are a certified operator of the FEI Titan STEM, please fill in the “Independent Usage Request” form available through this webpage:

https://www.mtu.edu/acmal/shared-facilities/electron-optics/instrumentation/fei-200kv-titan-themis-s-tem/

If you require staff operated analysis fill in the “Request Analysis” form available through ACMAL webpage https://www.mtu.edu/acmal/

Regards,

Erico Freitas

STEM users – O2 sensor in the lab

The O2 meter at the STEM lab is inoperante. We are now using a small hand size backup O2 sensor (see picture) in the STEM lab. It’s on the window stool.

If it reads 24 it means the oxygen level is normal.

Please, do not remove this oxygen sensor out from the lab, and leave it next to the window so it’s visible from outside.

If it flashes and beeps please leave the room and let me know or ACMAL staff know.

Erico Freitas

Handheld sensor with O2 display reading at 24.

ATTN: AFM & FIB Users

The reservation calendars for the AFM and FIB will no longer be merged. We’re splitting these two calendars. It’s important to note that this is a shared space, and both instruments might be in use simultaneously. If your research is highly sensitive, please make sure to book the room on both calendars.

The new calendars will be named:

  • ACMAL-Origin AFM
  • ACMAL-FIB

Let me know if you have any questions,