MRI: Acquisition of a 500 MHz Solid State NMR Spectrometer for Research and Research Training at Pacific Lutheran University and the South Puget Sound Area

Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma WA

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation program (MRI), the Department of Chemistry at Pacific Lutheran University will acquire a 500 MHz spectrometer. The NMR spectrometer will be utilized in research projects including 1) solid state structure analysis of membrane-bound antimicrobial peptides, 2) synthesis of biologically active natural products, 3) development of new synthetic organic methodology, 4) investigations of new methods for copolymer synthesis, and 5) studies of copolymer local segmental dynamics. This will become the first NMR spectrometer with solid-state capabilities in the region and Pacific Lutheran University will invite faculty and students from regional colleges and community colleges to use the instrument. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools available to chemists for the elucidation of the structure of molecules. It is used to identify unknown substances, to characterize specific arrangements of atoms within molecules, and to study the dynamics of interactions between molecules in solution. Access to state-of-the-art NMR spectrometers is essential to chemists who are carrying out frontier research. The results from these NMR studies will have an impact in polymer chemistry and materials.