Stopped-Flow NMR Spectroscopy for the Physical and Life Sciences

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Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the most powerful analytical techniques available to scientists. It is information-rich and provides details on a molecule's structure, shape and interactions. As such, NMR spectroscopy is an essential tool for research across the physical and life sciences. In traditional NMR spectroscopy, there is an unavoidable and significant delay between the preparation of a sample and the recording of data. Therefore, when measuring chemical changes by NMR spectroscopy, critical information is missed.This proposal will fund a unique and transformative NMR spectroscopy package that includes a stopped-flow module. This module, which is the first commercially available device of its type, allows samples to be prepared inside the spectrometer. Therefore, data collection can start immediately after a sample is prepared, which means the full story of a molecule's journey in a reaction or its interactions with other species can be monitored in real time. The requested instrument also includes a sensitive NMR spectrometer, where key electronic parts of the instrument are cryogenically cooled to increase sensitivity. This is essential, as it will allow faster data collection and the ability to record information for molecules that are present in low quantities.The equipment will transform the abilities of scientists who use NMR spectroscopy. For example, synthetic chemists will be able to new gain knowledge of reaction mechanisms, the steps by which one molecule is converted into another. This will allow them to design and discover new processes that are more efficient and selective. For example, medicines maybe sustainably manufactured by optimising the structure and performance of a catalysts. Biological chemists will be able to use this equipment for the direct, quantitative and non-intrusive investigation of the chemical processes of disease. This new knowledge will allow them to identify the chemistry underpinning such biology and will lead to the development of new treatments. Materials chemists will be able to study the solution state structure of electrolytes and novel liquids, which will lead to the development of improved batteries.