Chemical reactions can be induced by heat, light, electrons, or by applying a force; the field of mechanochemistry. It turns out that the forces exerted at contacting interfaces are sufficient to significantly accelerate chemical reaction rates. However, perhaps the most difficult surface-science challenge is to monitor reaction pathways and their kinetics at sliding solid-solid interfaces. We discuss strategies for measuring reaction pathways and their kinetics for well-defined surfaces in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) by analyzing how its composition evolves while rubbing and by monitoring the gas-phase products that are formed. The mechanochemical reaction kinetics can be accurately measured using an atomic force microscope tip, either by compressing or sliding over the mechano-active overlayer. These experimental results on well-defined systems enables theoretical models to be developed that are in excellent agreement with the experimental results.

Understanding mechanochemical reaction pathways; surface chemistry at the solid-solid interface

Where thousands of chemistry professionals meet to share ideas and advance scientific and technical knowledge. Spring 2023 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch at the end of March.

ACS Spring 2023

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