Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

This application is for an Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectrometer. Similar to NMR spectroscopy, which can be used to detect various nuclei, EPR spectroscopy is the only technique for the detailed characterization of molecules containing unpaired electrons. EPR spectroscopy is key to elucidating the structure and properties of the novel radical-containing, paramagnetic molecules and materials that are being developed in the co-applicant's research programs; but this frequently used technique is not available at York University. Consequently, the instrument requested will enable the research groups of the co-applicants, Thomas Baumgartner and Christopher Caputo, to drive discoveries for the rapid development of new high-performance materials in the context of groundbreaking solutions for the sustainable future of our planet (including batteries, chemical sensors, and metal-free catalysts). The strategic hiring of the two co-applicants as CRCs in 2017 has provided the foundation for an intensification of research in the field of synthetic materials main-group chemistry. While the university has invested in new infrastructure for the entire department, some more specialized, but nonetheless critical items, such as the requested EPR spectrometer are still required for the successful execution of the programs of several research groups. Without it, we are facing a severe bottleneck that has recently stalled the successful completion of several research projects. The need for this instrument is substantial and this is the third consecutive time applying for an NSERC RTI award to purchase this equipment. It should be noted that the instrument will also be used by several other researchers in the Department of Chemistry at York University and beyond. All current and future HQP from the two research laboratories (and those HQP from other groups that require access) will be trained hands-on in the use of this state-of-the-art instrument and be able to take advantage of this valuable spectroscopic method. EPR spectroscopy is widely used in a broad variety of industries and HQP will gain readily transferable skills in the laboratory that they will bring to the workforce whether they are interested in academic, private or public sector scientific careers.