Loras College Catholic Liberal Arts - Dubuque, IOWA Chemistry / Biochemistry home: Equipment

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Department of Chemistry
and Biochemistry Equipment

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrophotometers

The NMR is one of the most important tools of organic chemistry. It is the basis of the MRI that is used by the medical field to image the body. It subjects a sample to a magnetic field and then records the absorption of radio waves by the sample. The information obtained can then be used to deduce the chemical structure of the substance. The 300 MHz NMR was installed this year and is unusual to find at a small school. We are one of only four small schools in Iowa to have one.

Differential Scanning Calorimeter and Thermomechanical Analyzer

The DSC measures the amount of energy absorbed or released by a sample as it is heated, cooled or held at a constant temperature. This process allows for the measurement of properties such as crystallization, glass transition and melting temperatures. Other data such as heat capacity, heat of melting, heat of curing, and the purity can be determined.

The TMA is capable of measuring the change in the dimensions, such as expansion and contraction, of a sample as it is heated, cooled or held at a constant temperature. It is also capable of applying a pulling force upon a sample and measuring its extension. Properties that can be measured include thermal expansion, compressive modulus, softening point, penetration, elastic modulus, creep and stress relaxation.

Thermogravimetric Analyzer

The TGA measures the change in mass of a sample as the sample is heated, cooled or held at a constant temperature. This allows us to conduct polymer decomposition studies, measurement of filler or reinforcing agent content, and thermal stability in a variety of atmospheres.

Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometer

The FTIR measures the absorption of infrared light as it passes through a sample. Every organic compound has a unique absorption spectrum, as unique as fingerprints. Thus, the FTIR can be used to identify individual compounds. A large computer library of spectrums of known compounds helps in the identification process.

Mass Spectrophotometer

The Mass Spectrophotometer is used to measure the size of molecules and is used in conjunction with the FTIR and NMR to determine the structure of molecules. A device similar to this one is used in the drug testing of athletes.

TBS-380 Fluorometer