MRI: Acquisition of a Thermal Gravimetric Analyzer - FTIR Instrumentation for Undergraduate Research Projects

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With support from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, the Department of Chemistry at Wheeling Jesuit University will acquire an integrated thermal gravimetric analyzer - Fourier transform infrared (TGA/FTIR) instrument. This equipment will enhance research in a number of areas including a) the thermal decomposition of metal inorganic complexes to form active sulfides for photovoltaic applications; b) the deactivation and regeneration of VOC oxidation catalysts; and c) the concentration and sequestration of carbon dioxide. The TGA/FTIR will also be used in the instrumental analysis and inorganic laboratory courses. This instrument will also enhance the educational and research training of students at a neighboring female preparatory high school. Integrating the TGA with FTIR spectroscopy results in a powerful analytical tool for characterizing thermal decomposition processes and the adsorption of gases on solids. The instrument provides accurate weight loss or weight gain data of solids while simultaneously measuring the concentrations of the product gases to provide kinetic data needed for process evaluation. These studies will help to identify advanced materials for energy generation and will expand our scientific knowledge for developing processes for pollution abatement.