Emergence of nanoparticles at the liquid-liquid interface tracked with X-ray Spectroscopy

Syntheses of nanomaterials at the liquid-liquid interface gained high interest due to their excellent capability to control size and morphology. While developing new synthesis routes of this kind, we aim at a better understanding of structural and chemical changes at the nanoscale by studying the formation processes of the nanomaterials in situ.

To this end, we make use of X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopy (photon-in photon-out spectroscopy) to map the first coordination shell and electronic structure during the preparation process.

Furthermore, we would like to push the limits for studying reactions in situ in our lab without the need for a synchrotron source. Using our new easyXES spectrometer, we initially focus on reactions with a relatively long timescale. By designing in situ reactors for the in-house spectrometer, we overcome the limitations imposed by beamtime availability.

We are looking for motivated students who would like to design and test liquid cell setups in-house in situ X-ray spectroscopy!

Contact person for this project: Lars Klemeyer