The University of North Dakota is the recipient of ARI funds for the renovation of infrastructural utilities and laboratory case work, in its chemistry building, Abbott Hall. The renovations are necessary to permit undergraduate and graduate students to conduct their experiments in an environment that has adequate ventilation and support systems. In the original design of the building, it was anticipated that fumes could be withdrawn from the bench tops in laboratories by using small desk top hoods to remove vapors. This arrangement failed to remove sufficient vapors from the laboratories over the years and has reduced the types of experiments that can be performed in the building. To correct the problem, 30 fume hoods, including base cabinets and connections to water, electric, ventilation, and other piped gases and fluids will be installed. Accessible hoods, meeting ADA requirements, will be placed in the renovated laboratories. Improved facilities will provide a safe and pleasant research training environment, assisting the Chemistry Department in its recruitment efforts to attract new students.
