Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 30, 2026

In situ FTIR Spectroscopy as a Tool for Investigation of Gas/Solid Interaction: Water-Enhanced CO2 Adsorption in UiO-66 Metal-Organic Framework
Published on: February 1, 2020
Adsorption and reaction of CO2 and SO2 at a water surface
Teresa L Tarbuck1, Geraldine L Richmond
1Materials Science Institute and Department of Chemistry, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, USA.
Abstract:
The orientation and hydrogen bonding of water molecules in the vapor/water interfacial region in the presence of SO2 and CO2 gas are examined using vibrational sum-frequency spectroscopy (VSFS) to gain insight into the adsorption and reactions of these gases in atmospheric aerosols. The results show that an SO2 surface complex forms when the water surface is exposed to an atmosphere of SO2 gas. Reaction of SO2 with interfacial water leads to other spectral changes that are examined by studying the VSF spectra and surface tension isotherms of several salts added to the aqueous phase, specifically NaHSO3, NaHCO3, Na2SO3, Na2CO3, Na2SO4, and NaHSO4. The results are compared with similar studies of CO2 adsorption and reaction at the surface. A weakly bound surface complex is not observed with CO2.
Related Concept Videos
Redox Reactions
The Carbon Cycle
The Sulfur Cycle
Oxidation-Reduction Reactions
Oxidation Numbers
Adsorption of Gases on Solids

