Nonlinear Optical Studies of Oil and Water Interfaces

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The interface between two immiscible liquids is important to many chemical and biological processes of considerable significance. This research project, supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, applies state of the art non-linear optical spectroscopic probes to interrogate the structure and orientation of molecules at the oil-water interface. This information is useful for developing a molecular level understanding of such diverse areas as phase transfer catalysis, solvent extraction, biological membranes, and environmental contamination of ground waters. Second harmonic generation and sum frequency generation at the liquid-liquid interface will be used to provide the molecular level structural information sought. Initial studies will concentrate on the water-alkane, water-nitrobenzene, and water-benzonitrile systems, as well as surfactant molecules adsorbed at these interfaces. In order to understand ion transport, electron transport, and material transport between immiscible liquid phases, a detailed knowledge of the molecular structure of the interface is essential. Non-linear optical spectroscopic probing of the interface can provide this information, and forms the basis of this research project. Results of this work will be important in such technologically important and diverse areas as phase transfer catalysis, photochemical energy conversion, and environmental clean-up operations.