Solute-solvent interactions play a key role in several chemical and biological processes. Small molecular anions have been used to study solute-solvent interactions via steady-state and ultrafast infrared spectroscopy. The width and position of infrared absorptions, as well as the population, dephasing, and reorientation lifetimes of the ions can determine the strength and type of interaction with the solvent molecules. Dicyanamide (N(CN)2-), azide (N3-), and thiocyanate (SCN-) have strong infrared absorptions in the mid-infrared, which makes them promising candidates for strong coupling to optical fields. Using ultrafast infrared spectroscopy as a means for detection, the vibrational energy relaxation and reorientation lifetimes of the anions in a variety of solvents will be discussed, with a focus on the anions’ potential utility for strong coupling.

Solute-solvent interactions of small anions in a variety of solvents

256th National Meeting (2018)

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