Structure, dynamics and reactivity at surfaces and interfaces

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The focus of our research program is to provide a microscopic view of surface and interface structure, dynamics and chemical reactivity.  Surfaces and interfaces provide a unique environment for chemistry.  Reaction rates and mechanisms for surface processes are typically very different than in other environments.  Unfortunately, surfaces and interfaces are inherently difficult to investigate, so comparatively little is known about the details of surface processes on the molecular level. Our approach has been in the use of existing and the development of new nonlinear optical techniques to probe interface environments. These methods are complemented by the use of scanning probe microscopies and other characterization methods to provide a link between the molecular level and macroscopic surface properties. Our research efforts have been focused on the understanding of fundamental issues associated with interface science, as well as their application to problems of interest and importance to the broader surface and materials science communities. We propose to (i) perform fundamental spectroscopy and dynamics experiments on a range of surfaces and interfaces to help understand more about the environment and how it affects molecular orientation, interaction and reaction(ii) develop new nonlinear optical techniques to provide new information about these environments and (iii) Apply these and other techniques to help us understand the properties of polymer thin films and to provide insight into the processes of charge carrier injection and mobility in highly ordered polymer films. This understanding will help to improve the performance of organic-based electronics,light emitting diodes,and photovoltaics.