Liquid Interface X-ray Scattering
Synchrotron x-ray surface scattering is the most powerful probe of molecular and mesoscale structure at liquid-vapor and liquid-liquid interfaces. The precise and flexible design of the liquid interface reflectometer at NSF’s ChemMatCARS (APS, 15-ID-C) and the high brilliance and wide x-ray energy range (5-70 keV) offered in this third generation insertion device beamline provides a world-leading capability for the study of liquid surfaces and buried liquid-liquid interfaces.
Environmental chemistry at liquid interfaces
Including studies of solvent extraction separations, gas hydrate formation, natural organic matter, and nanoparticle toxicity.
Chemistry of life processes and biomolecular materials
Including studies of peripheral membrane protein-lipid interactions, anti-microbial peptides, and functional peptide amphiphiles or hybrid bio-nanomaterials.
Directed assembly for tailored functionality at liquid interfaces
Including studies of organic/inorganic nucleation and mineralization, elastic properties of nanoscopic films, and tunable polymer brushes with mesoscopic patterning.
References/Additional Reading
- Liquid Surfaces and Interfaces: X-ray Synchrotron Methods (Peter S. Pershan and Mark L. Schlossman)
- Synchrotron X-Ray Scattering from Liquid Surfaces and Interfaces (Wei Bu and Mark L. Schlossman)
- Bu, Wei (2009) Thesis (PDF)
- Lectures of 2021 Data Analysis School on X-ray Scattering from Liquid Interfaces: PDF | Video
Liquid Interface Contact
Wei Bu
(630) 252-0470
weibu@uchicago.edu
Daniel Kerr
(630) 252-0486
danielhskerr@uchicago.edu
David Walwark
(630) 252-0486
dwalwa1@uic.edu