Nature builds multiphase environments to drive specific reactivity across boundaries. Multiphase systems present an opportunity to drive reactions that would otherwise not occur in bulk, continuous phases. Here, we demonstrate preferential nucleation near the three-phase boundary as a function of its geometry. A sub-microliter water droplet deposited on an electrode immersed in a continuous 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) phase is used to fabricate a three-phase junction (water|DCE|electrode). Adjusting the angle of the three-phase junction by adjusting the hydrophilicity of the electrode can lead to precipitation of ferrocenemethanol (FcMeOH) at the three-phase boundary only. Analysis by cyclic voltammetry coupled to numerical simulations provide insight into the physico-chemical origin of the precipitation depending on the three-phase boundary angle. This finding offers a convenient means to control the local reactivity at the three-phase boundaries.

Tuning the three-phase microenvironment geometry promotes phase formation

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.