Chemistry of confined water

The chemical properties of interfacial nanoconfinements in clay. This project will introduce the use of atomically prepared nanometer-thin, layered samples to investigate the molecular basics of the extraordinary high ion mobility in clay. Clay approximately contributes two-thirds of the mineral dust aerosol originating from arid regions and its ability to initiate ice nucleation is well known. Clays are composed of crystalline aluminosilicate layers that may be held together by hydrogen bonds of embedded water. The proposed research targets the investigation of the local chemical environment of ions in the interlayer space of clay and the structure of the hydrogen-bonding network there at subfreezing temperatures.

Energy and Environment Division: Inter-Laboratory Research Call.