Objective The proposed project intends to obtain a molecular insight into the order and structure of thin wetting films (solid/liquid/gas) as an effort to relate molecular properties to macroscopic measureable parameters such as surface forces and contact angles. The approach will consist in combining two powerful surface sensitive vibrational spectroscopic techniques (Vibrational Sum Frequency and Total Internal Reflection Raman spectroscopies) with an apparatus capable of measuring the forces exerted between these asymmetric surfaces as a function of distance (Thin Film Pressure Balance). VSFS is intrinsically surface specific probing the first few monolayers and detecting only molecules with a preferred orientation. Conversely, TIR Raman probes deeper into the bulk (~100 nm), but detects all molecules making these two techniques complementary. Results will provide unique information on the structural changes in nanometer confined geometries of i) pure water films, ii) surfactant and polymer stabilized films and iii) biophysical relevant surfaces (planar supported lipid bilayers). The project will involve close collaboration between two research groups in Europe (Germany and England), and will help developing the applicant’s independent research skills during his period of reintegration. The applicant’s unique experience in surface vibrational spectroscopy and molecules under confinement, learnt particularly during his previous Marie Curie fellowship, will be decisive in the successful implementation of this challenging project. Fields of science natural scienceschemical sciencespolymer sciencesnatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiochemistrybiomoleculeslipidsengineering and technologymaterials engineeringcoating and filmsnatural sciencesmathematicspure mathematicsgeometrynatural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsspectroscopy Keywords Instrumental techniques Molecular chemistry Structural chemistry Surface chemistry Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) PEOPLE-2007-2-2.ERG - Marie Curie Action: "European Reintegration Grants" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-ERG-2008 See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-ERG - European Re-integration Grants (ERG) Coordinator KUNGLIGA TEKNISKA HOEGSKOLAN Address Brinellvagen 8 100 44 Stockholm Sweden See on map Region Östra Sverige Stockholm Stockholms län Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Administrative Contact Ilona Mozsi (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window EU contribution € 45 000,00
