Laboratory of Physical Chemistry

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Research groups

Molecular spectroscopy and theoretical chemistry
Prof. Lauri Halonen

The research consists of experimental, theoretical and computational work. Experimental efforts are aimed at developing new laser-based methods for high resolution spectroscopy and applying these techniques in, for example, medical research. We are especially interested in improving the sensitivity of current methods used in absorption spectroscopy and developing new techniques for fluorescence spectroscopy. In the theoretical and computational field the work is concerned with applying state-of-the-art ab initio calculations to problems in both spectroscopic and surface science research. Algebraic methods are used to solve problems in forming Hamiltonians for the internal degrees of freedom of a molecule.

Solid state spectroscopy and photochemistry
Prof. Markku Räsänen

The group is interested in studying the properties of molecules and their reactions in inert solid environments. Low temperatures in the range of 4 to 50 K are used and the molecular systems are probed by various spectroscopic techniques. Specific projects include solid-state synthesis of novel noble-gas containing molecules and control of molecular conformations by selective vibrational excitation. The optical properties of Si nanocrystals in SiO₂ are also studied with future prospects of creating an optical memory. Computational work is used extensively to understand and analyze the experimental results.

Free Radical Reactions in Combustion and Atmospheric Processes
Doc. Raimo Timonen

The group studies the chemical kinetics of free radicals and atoms as they react with other radicals and molecules. A flow reactor, coupled to a quadrupole mass spectrometer, is used and the reactions are investigated as a function of temperature and pressure. The kinetic data obtained are important for purposes of computer modelling combustion processes and atmospheric reactions.