Understanding molecular structure and organization of a fluid's interfacial layers is important to control wetting, fouling, adsorption, and other important heterogeneous processes. Ionic liquids present an exciting opportunity to examine intermolecular electrostatic forces that can stabilize thin fluid films and extended interfacial systems. This work explores the behavior of thin (1-100 nm) ionic liquid films and bulk IL interfaces in contact with air and noble metal substrates. Thin IL films are introduced by a highly controlled emersion process. Bulk interfaces are prepared by immersing the metal substrate into an IL solution. Data from ellipsometry, vibrational spectroscopy, contact angle, and electrochemical measurements are reported for the thin films and bulk solution / metal interfaces. Results correlate film and interfacial thickness and molecular structure with the chemical nature of the IL components and substrates. Descriptors include chemical interactions i.e. hydrophobic forces, hydrogen bonding, van der Waals, electrostatics, etc. These studies inform work in IL electrochemistry, IL modified materials, and new fabrication methods for tailored surfaces which are urgently desired.

Structure and behavior of ionic liquid interfaces and thin films

248th National Meeting (2014)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.