fastNMR · Fast, Flexible, and Convenient: a simple insert system for the in situ NMR analysis of very fast reactions on a modern open-access FT NMR spectrometer

The project will involve further design and development of our methodology, developed under the ERC Advanced grant 'arylator', for variable ratio in situ stopped flow NMR. The methodology has recently been published and its power amply demonstrated in the deconvolution of the mechanism for CF3 transfer from Ruppert's reagent to electrophiles. The equipment that will developed and demonstrated under tenure of a proof of concept grant will reduce the dead time from 0.2 seconds to a matter of milliseconds whilst retaining the flexibility of our current system. Thus a standard walk-up NMR spectrometer can thus be used ad hoc for the analysis of very fast homogeneous reactions. This will be transformative for the mechanistic analysis of reactions, including catalysed and enzymatic processes, and will significantly enhance the commercial potential of the stopped flow NMR system.