Photochemistry: Hands on training in molecular spectroscopy
In the last decades, photochemistry has evolved up to reach significant and important relevance in sustainable energy, industrial and medical applications. The discovery of new appeling materials embraces interdisciplinary cooperation of many fields of science and technology.
Our research project will focus on the interactions of light with molecular compounds. For example, the study of chemical processes that occur because of the absorption of light.
Photochemical systems that use sunlight to drive important chemical reactions or to generate electricity is of great interest nowadays. Photochemistry is also a key discipline for the characterization of materials and the comprehension of chemistry reactions. To describe these processes, we will work on the concepts of molecular orbitals and energy bands, as well as the interaction of light with matter to explain the photoinduced processes that are generated. In addition, a deep understanding of the behavior of materials requires a good knowledge of scientific instrumentation: light sources, photodetectors and spectroscopy configuration for the detection of absorption and emission will be described.
In order to consolidate what has been learned, participants will design low-cost spectroscopy setups for the characterization of various molecular compounds. This requires hands-on practice in optoelectronics and microcontroller programming.
With this project, students with talent and interested in chemistry will enhance their enthusiasm for science and research in a multidisciplinary environment, broadening their knowledge through direct contact with experimentation, the latest technologies and innovative methods in the field.
This project is addressed to students interested in Chemistry, Physics or Engineering.
- To discover Photophysics, Optoelectronics and Spectroscopy.
- To learn about automation, research methodologies in experimental chemistry.
- To familiarize with how to work in a laboratory.
- To introduce to green and sustainable chemistry.
Laptop, Lab coat