Nick Roberts

Topic

Towards Accessible Devices for Chemical Research and Education

Department of Chemistry

Date & location

• Wednesday, August 27, 2025
• 1:00 P.M.
• Virtual Defence

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Scott McIndoe, Department of Chemistry, University of Victoria (Supervisor)
• Dr. Irina Paci, Department of Chemistry, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

• Dr. Bosco Yu, Department of Mechanical Engineering, UVic

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Charlotte Norris, School of Environmental Studies, UVic

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of inexpensive automated devices for the purposes of chemical research and education. The design of two novel devices and one device “update” are provided, each discussing device design, reliability, accuracy and application. The research broken up into three major projects, presented in Chapters 2, 3 and 4.

Chapter 1 provides a broad overview of the topics found in the thesis, including automation, additive manufacturing, programming and relevant chemistries. While a wide range of topics are covered, they are all brought into focus with this thesis’ main goal: automating chemistry.

Chapters 2 and 3 investigate the design and use of liquind sampling devices. Explicitly, Chapter 2 discusses the design and application of an auto-sampling device for the study of reaction kinetics. Along with device specifications and design, the device was tested thoroughly for accuracy and reliability, and was demonstrated to be effective in the kinetics of a reaction. Chapter 3 discusses modifying a pre-existing auto-dispensing device found in the literature, with notable improvements in the design and user experience.

Lastly, Chapter 4 covers a real-time device for monitoring the quality of air, targeted for educational purposes. Device specifications and use are covered, and instructions for novices on how to setup/use the device are included.

This dissertation provides new and improved inexpensive automated tools to the chemistry laboratory and classroom. The devices found herein can all be used to improve the workflow of researchers by obviating the need for manual labour, allowing them to focus more on results analysis and experimental design.