X-ray Scattering Studies of Interfaces Between Two Immiscible Electrolyte Solutions

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This research project investigates molecular level structure at the interface between immiscible electrolyte solutions. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professor Mark Schlossman in the Department of Physics at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Professor Petr Vanysek in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Northern Illinois University, use synchrotron x-ray scattering in combination with electrochemical methods to probe the ordering of ions and solvent molecules at liquid-liquid interfaces. This ordering and the transfer of ions between liquid phases is controlled by an electrical potential imposed across the interface by a 4-electrode potentiostat. This project is enabling structure at the interface between aqueous and organic phases to be probed on the molecular length scale. Results have broad application in areas related to separation processes, drug transport, energy conversion, sensor responses, and phase transfer catalysis. Studies advance fundamental understanding of interfacial structure and charge transport.