2.1. Required Specifications. The proposed tool must conform to the following specifications: 2.1.1. University requires an instrument to quantify the molecular weight distribution of poly-anionic and poly-cationic polymers. i. These polymers will range from 1 kDa to 3 MDa in molecular weight and bear hydrophobic, acidic, and/or basic side chains that are unsuitable for organic solvent analysis. ii. University will generate hundreds of polymers on a weekly basis and thus require an automated, high throughput analysis instrument. 2.1.2. Automated, modular GPC instrumentation: vial holder, 50 μL auto-injector, column thermostat, solvent degasser, appropriate columns for polyelectrolytes, and wiring and tubing to connect modules. 2.1.3. Molecular weight quantification instrumentation and software: refractive index and viscometer detectors, software to analyze molecular weight distribution. 2.1.4. Proposer must provide training and installation services.
