Solid State NMR Spectroscopy For Materials Chemistry

9 units (3-3-3) | second term

This course covers the principles and applications of solid-state NMR spectroscopy, with a focus on structural and dynamic characterization of organic and inorganic solids. Key applications include the analysis of heterogeneous catalysts, battery materials, and other energy storage systems. Topics include fundamental and advanced solid-state NMR techniques such as magic angle spinning (MAS), cross-polarization (CP), NMR of quadrupolar nuclei, multiple-pulse sequences, multi-dimensional experiments, sensitivity enhancement methods, and NMR methods for probing molecular dynamics. Recent advances in the field such as the integration of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) for automated spectral analysis, structural prediction, and data-driven materials discovery will also be briefly reviewed. Hands-on laboratory sessions using solid-state NMR spectrometers at the Caltech Solid State NMR Facility provide practical experience. Not Offered 2026-27.