Fast 1H-13C correlation data for use in automatic structure confirmation of small organic compounds

A method of speeding up the acquisition of 1H-13C correlation data has been developed. It is applicable in situations where the experiment time is determined by the need to sample the second dimension adequately rather than by signal-to-noise ratio requirements. Two spectra with different, reduced, 13C sweep widths are measured, time being saved by reducing the number of increments in line with the reduction in the sweep width. Rules are presented for the selection of the two reduced sweep widths so that the correct 13C chemical shifts can be easily and unambiguously calculated. The benefits and limitations of this approach, in the context of the structure confirmation of small (MW < or = 450) organic compounds, is discussed. The use of a third spectrum to resolve problems that may be encountered when proton signals overlap is demonstrated.