Prof. Nancy Levinger, Colorado State University

Chemistry in confinement: New insights from reverse micelle explorations

Physical Chemistry Divisional Seminar

We have explored the nature of the environment inside reverse micellar nanodroplets using a range of techniques. This presentation will highlight some of our newest results. We explore proton transfer reactions occurring in the interiors of ionic and nonionic reverse micelles. Here we observe interesting trends demonstrating the role of the confined environment on the reactions. We have also utilized multinuclear NMR spectroscopies to investigate the nature of the water pool in reverse micelles. Using polyoxovanadates, we can gauge the acidity of the micelle interior. We also can learn about the structure of ionic liquids sequestered therein.

For more information contact Prof. Christine Payne (404-385-3125).