This project will introduce high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) into the chemistry curriculum of Allegheny College. A significant instrument acquisition program is near completion, and this project will bring the institution one major step closer to that goal. This computer-controlled HPLC system is suitable for both accurate analytical work and mixture separation. Included are detectors that indicate the presence and quantities of virtually all common chemical substances. The entire operation will be run from a data system that can simultaneously direct the instrument through the specified analysis routine and collect the data that result. It also has the capability to retrieve and interpret data from previous experiments during the entire process. As a primary objective, the HPLC will become an integral part of the instrumental analysis course. In addition, student research will be aimed at the development of better procedures for optimizing analytical conditions. Since there was previously no HPLC equipment at the college, the project will, for the first time, provide the opportunity for students in chemistry and other departments of the natural sciences to use this very practical and versatile technique.
