MRI: Acquisition of a 400 MHz NMR Spectrometer for the Improvement of Undergraduate and Graduate Research Capabilities

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With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation Program (MRI) and support from the Chemistry Research Instrumentation Program (CRIF), Professor Mohamed Abdalla from Tuskegee University and colleague Albert Russell will acquire a 400 MHz NMR spectrometer. In general, 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 synthetic organic/inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry and biochemistry. This instrument will be an integral part of teaching as well as research performed by undergraduate students at this historically black college (HBCU).The award will enhance research and education at all levels, especially in areas such as (a) synthesis and characterization of biologically active compounds; (b) characterization of botanical extracts from local plants; (c) studies nanoparticle catalyzed cellulose deconstruction for the production of ethanol; (d) determination of protein structure; and (e) development of coatings from natural sources for the prevention of steel corrosion and fouling.