A UV-vis-NIR spectrometer dedicated to the study of new catalysts & materials

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This proposal requests funds for the purchase of an Ultraviolte-visible-NearIR (UV-vis-NIR) spectrometer to be used in our research studies in the area of materials preparation.A UV-vis-NIR spectrometer measures the type of light absorbed by various substances such that the type of light absorbed becomes a signature that allows us to identify the substance studied. The instrument we are seeking can measure the type of absorbed light according to its energy or wavelength. For example, some compounds absorb ultraviolt light, which is of relatively high energy, while other compounds absorb visible light (the light detected by the human eye), and still others absorb Infrared light, which is of much lower energy. By determining what type of light is absorbed by a given substance, we can draw conclusions on its molecular structure. Alternatively, we can use this information (referred to as the "spectrum" of the compound) as a unique identifier for that substance and thus we can track it during various experiments involving mixtures of substances.Although UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy is not the only means of identifying substances, it is one of the most economical and practical techniques for identifying substances that are called paramagnetic, which are compounds that have an unpaired electron in their valence shells. Since our research studies involve a good number of such paramagnetic species, our studies rely heavily on access to such an instrument.   The instrument we are seeking will not only advance our research studies, it will also serve for the purpose of training our students.