MRI: Acquisition of an X-Ray Diffractometer

University Of Rochester, Rochester NY

Investigators

Abstract

This award is supported by the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) and the Chemistry Research Instrumentation (CRIF) programs. Professor William Jones from the University of Rochester and colleagues Richard Eisenberg, Daniel Weix, Michael Neidig and Ellen Matson have acquired a dual source diffractometer equipped with a cryostat. In general, an X-ray diffractometer allows accurate and precise measurements of the full three-dimensional structure of a molecule, including bond distances and angles. The instrument also provides accurate information about the spatial arrangement of a molecule relative to neighboring molecules. The diffraction studies impact many areas, including organic and inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry and biochemistry. This instrument is an integral part of teaching as well as research and research training of undergraduate and graduate students in chemistry and biochemistry at this institution as well as at local primarily undergraduate universities and community colleges. The award is aimed at enhancing research and education at all levels. It is used to determine structure and bonding in: non-precious metal catalysts for organic synthesis, transition-metal catalysts, transition metal complexes with non-traditional ligands, ternary metal oxide semiconductor nanomaterials used in photochemical reactions, and organometallic compounds.