Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

This research tools and instruments application is for a double-length inert-atmosphere glovebox which is essential to perform the PI's NSERC-funded research in inorganic and polymer chemistry.  This equipment, which is standard in many synthetic laboratories, is used to store and manipulate  highly air/moisture-sensitive chemicals. Acquisition of the requested equipment will facilitate the synthesis and study of unusual phosphorus containing molecules, polymers and catalysts. The polymers may find application as electronic materials and polymer-supported catalysts. In addition, new P=C ligands are being developed for metal-catalyzed asymmetric organic synthesis.  The current facilities in the PI's lab are inadequate and do not provide enough space for the nine researchers working on this chemistry. A double-length glovebox with four gloves is urgently needed and will dramatically increase the laboratory's research productivity by allowing two additional researchers to work concurrently. The glovebox will be equipped with a temperature controlling unit and a freezer that will facilitating the handling of thermally sensitive and pyrophoric materials. Additionally, a cold well will allow for low-temperature reactions.