Acquisition of Solid-State Probes and Electronics for an Existing NMR Spectrometer

Board Of Regents, Nshe, Obo University Of Nevada, Reno, Reno NV

Investigators

Abstract

With support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities: Multi-User program (CRIF:MU), the Department of Chemistry at the University of Nevada, Reno will refurbish a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer and upgrade it to provide modern solid-state NMR capabilities to the University. The new instrumentation will be employed in a wide variety of research projects including the synthesis of unusual polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, investigations of the three dimensional solid-state structure of peptides and proteins, studies of catalysts, analysis of fuel cell membranes, and the characterization of functional supramolecular polymers. NMR spectroscopy is a widely used analytical tool in any molecular-synthetic discipline in chemistry. Spectra, obtained by detecting transitions between energy levels arising from the nuclear spin properties of atoms, provide information on the arrangement and connectivity of atoms in molecules and materials. These data enable researchers to identify unknown substances and to determine their structures. This particular instrument will analyze substances in the solid state thereby providing valuable structural information on a variety of insoluble materials. The instrumentation will also allow the incorporation of solid-state NMR experiments into undergraduate courses. This NMR spectrometer will be used by others in the Chemistry Department, investigators in the Chemical and Material Engineering Departments and by researchers throughout the state. As the only generally available solid-state NMR spectrometer in Nevada, the instrument is expected to have a broad impact on research and education in the state.