MRI: Acquisition of a Glove Box and FT-IR and UV-VIS Spectrometers for Enhanced Undergraduate Chemistry Research

Lycoming College, Williamsport PA

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Chemistry at Lycoming College will acquire a glove box, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) and an ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) spectrophotometer. Research will focus on the following studies: a) synthetic chemistry utilizing intramolecular hydroacylation; b) production of mixed metal selenides; and c) the production of carbon-based radicals. Students at this undergraduate institution will be heavily involved in these research projects. A glove box is a critical piece of equipment when handling air-sensitive chemicals. FTIR and UV-VIS spectrometers are mainstays of the modern chemical laboratory, allowing rapid identification of unknown compounds. These fundamental studies will have an impact in a variety of areas including synthetic inorganic and organic chemistry.