Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

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 developed using this equipment are of interest as sensor materials, flame retardants, catalyst supports, asymmetric catalysts. This equipment will also facilitate the synthesis of new cationic initiator systems for the preparation of butyl rubber in collaboration with Canadian Industry.*The current facilities in the PI's lab are inadequate and do not provide enough space for the 13 researchers working on this chemistry. Our existing workhorse glovebox, purchased in 1999, is repeatedly breaking down and is in dire need of replacement. Moreover, this workhorse single-station glovebox cannot handle the demands of 13 researchers who use it on a daily basis. This new state-of-the-art 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. *Every HQP trainee in the areas of inorganic/organometallic synthesis and polymer synthesis should be capable of operating and using an inert atmosphere glovebox. This is a basic piece of equipment found in all research laboratories in these fields. Therefore, the skills obtained using this equipment will be transferable to the future careers of HQP whether in government, industry or academia whether in Canada or elsewhere.*In closing, we urgently need a new double-station glovebox to avoid severe delays in our research activities. *