Detection and reaction kinetics of reactive species in particle-forming environments using IR modulation spectroscopy by the example of dusty plasmas

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Gernot Friedrichs
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2018 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 401081403

The project aims at the development and testing of highly sensitive absorption spectroscopic modulation techniques for time-resolved detection of transient species in particle forming environments. Measurements will be performed in the infrared (IR) spectral range, hence enabling the quantitative detection of multiple gas phase species. Here, a focus is set on the investigation of the spectroscopy and chemical kinetics of the small hydrocarbon radicals CH3, C2H und C2H3 in dusty methane and acetylene plasmas. In general, by monitoring the concentration profiles of gas phase species during ongoing particle formation processes (in plasmas, in flames, in atmospheric aerosols), the new detection system will make it possible to draw conclusions about the role of surface reactions and their feedbacks on the overall gas phase chemistry. In this way, new reaction pathways that are mediated by the reactive surfaces or the special conditions in a plasma can be more easily identified.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants