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The first asymmetric synthesis of the previously unknown (-)-methyl palustramate is reported. The stereoselective synthesis featured a conformationally restricted Claisen rearrangement methodology to produce 1-benzylpipecolic ester as well as a new approach for debenzylation of 1-benzylpiperidines to successfully remove the benzyl protecting group, which traditional methods failed to accomplish. Research is being conducted on the usse of the methodology to the synthesis of (+)-palustrine.

The naturally occurring indolizidine alkaloid (-)-indolizidine 167B was prepared in nine steps with a 5.8% overall yield from an amino ester. This synthesis illustrates the importance of the Claisen rearrangement technique for the preparation of enantiopure indolizidine alkaloids from readily available alpha-amino acids. Moreover, the preparation of (-)-indolizidine 167B demonstrates the short pathway to N-benzylpipecolic esters.

The Public Works Department of Newmarket, NH, collaborated with University of New Hampshire researchers to construct a salt storage facility that is resistant to chloride corrosion. The team used two-dimensional fiber-reinforced plastic to strengthen the six foot high concrete walls of the structure which also utilizes a hyperbolic shell. Fiber-reinforced plastic is usually more expensive than steel but it can be competitive when labor and design are included in the estimation. The project is in response to lower public maintenance budgets and stricter environmental regulations.