US-Poland Research on Elucidating Mechanisms of HeterogenousChemical Reactions of Environmental Importance

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The objective of this US-Poland research project between Dr. A. W. Castleman of the Pennsylvania State University and Dr. H. Wincel of the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw is to investigate mechanisms of heterogenous chemical reactions of environmental importance and to underdtand the coupling between cycles involving both natural atmospheric constituents and pollutants introduced through various industrial processes. The researchers will investigate: (1) cluster distributions, and studies to unravel the dynamics of formation and the growth of clusters; (2) the stability and reaction energetics of cluster ions through measurements of their thermochemical properties; (3) the reactivity of clusters of varying size to elucidate the reaction mechanisms as influenced by various chemical constituents and degrees of aggregation/solvation; and (4) photostability and photodissociation, which complement studies on the thermodynamic stability of ion clusters and elicit some spectroscopic information as well as information on the influence of light on pollutant conversion reactions. During the course of the work, the researchers will intend to probe directly the spectroscopy of clusters via multiphoton ionization, so that the effects of clustering on electronic states can be determined. The results will provide further insight into the nature and strength of cluster bonds, energy transfer following photoabsorption, and hence reactivity. This project in atmospheric science fulfills the program obvjective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling leading experts in the United States and Eastern Europe to combine complementary talents andn pool resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.