Direct observation of ionic structure at solid-liquid interfaces: A deep look into the Stern Layer

Description

The distribution of ions and charge at solid-water interfaces plays an essential role in a wide range of processes in biology, geology and technology. While study of the solid-electrolyte interfaces date back to the early 20th century, a detailed picture of the structure of the electric double layer has remained elusive, largely because of experimental techniques have not allowed direct observation of the behaviour of ions, i.e. with subnanometer resolution. Making use of recent advances in Atomic Force Microscopy with atomic level precision, herein, we reveal the local surface charge and the ordered adsorption of the divalent ions, unlikely monovalent ions, to heterogeneous clay surfaces in contact with aqueous electrolytes. Complemented by density functional theory, the experiments produce a detailed picture of the formation of surface phases by templated adsorption of cations, anions and water, stabilized by hydrogen bonding.

Period	18 Mar 2015
Event title	DPG Frühjahrstagung 2015 Berlin: (DPG Spring Meeting)
Event type	Conference
Organiser	Deutsche Physikalische Gesellschaft
Location	Berlin, GermanyShow on map
Degree of Recognition	International