INS2-0041
The evolution of infrared spectroscopies beyond the diffraction limit: unveiling material properties at the nanometer scale
Topic
S2. High-End Characterization/Polymer Physics/Properties
When and Where
Sep 30, 2026
16:50 - 17:15
Room 103
Session Chairs
Dong Woog LEE
Presenter(s)
Giovanni Birarda (Elettra Synchrotron Light Source)
Co-Author(s)
Abstract
Vibrational spectroscopy has evolved from a fundamental characterization tool to a powerful platform for probing matter at unprecedented spatial resolution, beyond the diffraction limit. Recent advances in vibrational techniques are capable to achieve nanometric resolution, enabling the discovery of new insights of complex functional materials. The physical properties of polymeric materials—from charge transport in organic electronics to gas sorption in porous networks—are governed by structural features that often elude conventional diffraction-limited characterization.
Following an overview of state-of-the-art vibrational spectroscopy methodologies, we demonstrate their application across diverse material systems critical for energy and environmental challenges. Case studies include the characterization of organic crystals surface proprieties, where nanoscale chemical mapping reveals structure-property relationships related to macroscopic performances. We further explore CO₂ storage materials and bio-inspired systems, highlighting how high-resolution vibrational imaging unveils local chemical heterogeneity and interfacial phenomena.
High brilliant broadband sources like Synchrotrons, allow for in operando infrared spectroscopy studies of dynamic processes, like the CO₂ uptake in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), demonstrating the capability of monitoring of guest-host interactions at the molecular scale. These measurements provide direct visualization of adsorption mechanisms, structural transformations under working conditions, bridging the gap between static characterization and dynamic function.
Collectively, these examples illustrate how advanced vibrational techniques are transforming our understanding of functional materials, enabling rational design strategies for next-generation technologies.
Following an overview of state-of-the-art vibrational spectroscopy methodologies, we demonstrate their application across diverse material systems critical for energy and environmental challenges. Case studies include the characterization of organic crystals surface proprieties, where nanoscale chemical mapping reveals structure-property relationships related to macroscopic performances. We further explore CO₂ storage materials and bio-inspired systems, highlighting how high-resolution vibrational imaging unveils local chemical heterogeneity and interfacial phenomena.
High brilliant broadband sources like Synchrotrons, allow for in operando infrared spectroscopy studies of dynamic processes, like the CO₂ uptake in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), demonstrating the capability of monitoring of guest-host interactions at the molecular scale. These measurements provide direct visualization of adsorption mechanisms, structural transformations under working conditions, bridging the gap between static characterization and dynamic function.
Collectively, these examples illustrate how advanced vibrational techniques are transforming our understanding of functional materials, enabling rational design strategies for next-generation technologies.
