University of Virginia Library

New McCormick Road Chemistry Building Nears Completion

By Rick Brownfield
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer

Photo By Gill

Following completion of the yet unnamed chemistry building,
the chemistry department moved into the new labs on McCormick
Road in time for second semester classes. Finishing work is still
under way in the $6.5 million structure and the department should
be settled by spring, said Ervin R. Van Artsdalen, chairman of the
chemistry department.

"After 15 years' experience in five lab buildings, I have found
this building to be compatible to both undergraduate and graduate
students," stated Mr. Van Artsdalen.

At the undergraduate level, there is enough lab space for unhindered
work: sinks and gas lines are spaced along the lab tables
for every two students. In the old labs, up to eight students had
to share one sink. Mr. Van Artsdalen noted that the undergraduate
labs are as nice as any others in the country.

Graduate students are now able to have offices; the increased
lab space provides room for expanded graduate studies and research.

In addition to general labs, the new building houses several
special labs designed for research in specific areas. Included are
a radiological and nuclear chemistry lab, an advanced instrumental
techniques and analysis lab, and an area, slated for work in
electronics techniques.

The design includes new classroom facilities and an auditorium
seating about 500. A room is also available for seminar courses,
along with a study room for graduate students.

The building is totally air-conditioned because many of the
sophisticated instruments require a dry atmosphere and a constant
temperature. The labs are windowless to utilize all available wall
space.

Photo by Gill