Putting the spotlight on water: Local thermodynamics and local electrostatic fields at interfaces

Putting the spotlight on water: Local thermodynamics and local electrostatic fields at interfaces

Author(s): Martina Havenith, Simone Pezzotti 

Publication: Bunsen-Magazin 2026, 3, 62-64

Publisher: Deutsche Bunsen-Gesellschaft für physikalische Chemie e.V., Frankfurt

Language: English

DOI: 10.26125/n1x9-7t49

Abstract: We have constructed a THz ATR spectroelectrochemical cell that allows us to put a spotlight on the interfacial water and unravel the underlying molecular details at the electrified interface. The observed changes in the hydration motifs can be correlated with new concepts on local hydration enthalpy and entropy at a gold-water interface. Hydrophobicity and electric fields can both be tuned by adjusting the metal surface and applied voltage, offering promising paths to regulate reactivity.

Cite this:  M. Havenith, S. Pezzotti, Bunsen-Magazin 2026, 3, 62--64, DOI: 10.26125/n1x9-7t49

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