UCN awarded advanced TESCAN TIMA X equipment to strengthen regional scientific research

UCN awarded advanced TESCAN TIMA X equipment to strengthen regional scientific research

The award of the TESCAN TIMA X instrument is a milestone for the Universidad Católica del Norte and for the country's northern macro-region. This automated electron microscopy system enables high-resolution quantitative mineralogical analysis, identifying and mapping mineral phases with micrometric precision.

Strengthening Applied Research

Its incorporation will significantly strengthen the capabilities of the MAINI Laboratory in applied research areas such as:

• Mining and Metallurgy
• Geochemistry and Materials Science
• Environmental Biogeochemistry
• Valorization of industrial and mining waste
• Environmental assessment of soils and sediments

Thanks to this, UCN will be able to address with greater depth critical issues linked to the energy transition, sustainability, and the responsible use of natural resources.

A Strategic Platform for Science

"TESCAN TIMA X will also enable advanced studies in automated mineralogy, metallurgical process efficiency, critical-mineral exploration, and environmental monitoring, opening new opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration between laboratories, research centers, and companies."

This consolidates a state-of-the-art infrastructure that boosts applied research, innovation, and the training of specialized human capital in northern Chile.

A Collective Achievement

This accomplishment is the result of the committed and collaborative work of an extraordinary team. The proposal was led by Carolina Muñoz and Andrea Vásquez, with the valuable support of researchers Ley-Si Wong and Edelmira Galvez.

The entire MAINI team has made it possible to reach this important result through their constant work in management, operations, and technical support.

Leadership in the Northern Macro-region

With this milestone, UCN reaffirms its scientific leadership in the northern macro-region, strengthening the connection between academia and industry, promoting the training of advanced human capital, and boosting interdisciplinary research with impact on the country's technological, productive, and environmental challenges.

TESCAN TIMA X expands our analytical capabilities and positions MAINI as a strategic platform for applied science and sustainable development.

Continuity in Excellence

This new milestone follows the award secured in 2024 for the Laser Ablation system, currently being installed, which will enable analysis of geochemical tracers, trace elements, and high-precision isotopic studies.

Both pieces of equipment, funded through the ANID FONDEQUIP program, represent a qualitative leap for the Universidad Católica del Norte, consolidating its commitment to excellence, collaboration, and the strengthening of the region's scientific infrastructure.