Unique microscopic images provide new insights into ionic liquids
Tuesday, April 28, 2015 - 05:00
in Physics & Chemistry
To directly observe chemical processes in unusual, new materials is a scientific dream, made possible by modern microscopy methods: researchers at Kiel University have, for the first time, captured video images of the attachment of molecules in an ionic liquid onto a submerged electrode. The images from the nanoscale world provide detailed information on the way in which chemical components reorganise when a voltage is applied. New findings based on this information may lead to improved batteries and more energy efficient coating technology or solar engineering.