High-Pressure Structural Studies Of Organic Small-Molecule Systems

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

High-Pressure Structural Studies Of Organic Small-Molecule Systems

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 7th May 2001
  • Speaker: David R Allan (University of Edinburgh)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

The structures of very simple organic molecular systems reveal motifs that are characteristic of whole classes of compound. They form well-defined intermolecular interactions such as hydrogen bonding and dipolar contacts, and they are small enough to study with high-level quantum mechanical models. As these interactions depend upon distance they are strongly affected by pressure and hence high-pressure provides an exceptionally powerful means of inducing phase transitions and substantial alterations in the relative hierarchy of interaction strengths.

We have recently initiated a substantial programme of work on small organic molecules and all the systems so far investigated, such as the simple alcohols, carboxylic acids and ketones, have shown that profound structural modifications occur at pressures just above the onset of crystallisation. The most recent results of this ongoing work will be presented along with some initial results from our preliminary studies of the amino acids.

About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars

This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..

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