MRI: Acquisition of a High Resolution MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometer for Chemical Research

Tulane University, New Orleans LA

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Acquisition Program, the Department of Chemistry at Tulane University will acquire a Matrix-assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer (MALDI-TOF). The spectrometer will be used to investigate a variety of areas including synthesis of polymer macrocycles, characterization of enzymatic polymerizations, mechanistic studies of enzymes, organometallic catalysts, and polymetallic light harvesting ensembles of transition metal complexes. Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometry is the technique of choice for characterization of synthetic and natural macromolecules. It allows molecular weights of large molecules to be determined accurately and structures to be deduced. The instrument will be dedicated to serving Tulane students, and neighboring Loyola, Xavier and Dillard universities. It will be used in a variety of education and service activities including the education of students in instrumental analysis and biochemistry courses.