The growth and properties of thin films formed by electrochemical reactions are also studied. In general the electrode material is a metal or semiconductor, and where possible, single-crystal electrodes are used to control the chemistry as precisely as possible. Organized systems are of interest to Cornelia Bohne who studies dynamic processes involving components of supramolecular systems, such as guest complexation to cyclodextrins or bile salt aggregates, the intercalation to DNA and binding to proteins. Photophysical and photochemical probe molecules are employed to study fast dynamic processes in these systems by employing time-resolved absorption or fluorescence methods. The emphasis is on identifying the reactive excited states and their reaction modes, and then exploring the reaction dynamics and photostereochemistry.
Extensive use is made of quenching and sensitization experiments.
Targeted synthesis is used to prepare complexes with stereochemical sign-posting or ligand constraints that provide tests of the developing theoretical models. Longer-term goals include the use of macrocylic ligands to control reactivity and photophysics, leading to materials with useful optical properties. Transient absorption and emission spectrophotometry using pulsed lasers and lamps in the nanosecond time scale are used by Peter Wan to understand fundamental reactions of a variety of aromatic organic compounds. In addition, considerable efforts are invested in the design and synthesis of appropriate model compounds for study as well as the structural elucidation of photoproducts. Other reactions of current interest involve phenols and derivatives and those giving rise to carbanion and carbocation intermediates.