Upgrade of 400 MHz NMR Capabilities for Research, Education and Outreach

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With this award from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation and Facilities: Multi-user (CRIF:MU) program, Professor Mark Ratner and colleagues Joseph Hupp, Tobin Marks, SonBinh Nguyen and J. Fraser Stoddart from Northwestern University will acquire a 400 MHz spectrometer. The proposal will enhance research training and education at all levels, especially in areas of study such as (a) unlocking the synthetic potential of n-allylhydrazones, (b) bimetallic ethylene polymerization: integrated synthetic, mechanistic, and polymerization studies, and photonics, plasmonics and molecule-based nanomaterials, (c) molecular logic for nanoelectronics, (d) synthesis and characterization of metal-organic frameworks from start to finish, (e) characterization of the surface of colloidal quantum dot (QDs) and its correspondence to their electronic and optical properties, and (f) design and synthesis of novel catalysts for green chemistry and environmental remediation.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 follow the progress of chemical reactions, to characterize specific arrangements of atoms within molecules, and to study the dynamics of interactions between molecules in solids and in solution. Access to state-of-the-art NMR spectrometers is essential to carry out frontier chemistry related research and to train students in modern research techniques. The results from these NMR studies will have an impact on organic, materials, electronics, environmental and bioorganic chemistry research at Northwestern University. The instrument will be available to users at other institutions including Harold Washington College and Roosevelt University. The resources will be used not only for research activities but also for research training of undergraduate and graduate students including those from underrepresented groups.