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Terahertz absorption characteristics of ammonium salt solution based on self-sampling microfluidic chip
Qinghao Meng1,2,3,4, Siyu Qian1,2,3,4, Jing Ding1,2,3,4
1Key Laboratory of Terahertz Optoelectronics, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100048, China.
Scientific Reports
|May 17, 2022
Summary
Terahertz spectroscopy faces challenges in aqueous solutions due to water absorption. This study used a microfluidic chip and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to show ion hydration and electric fields alter water
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy is vital in biochemistry but hindered by water's strong THz absorption in aqueous solutions.
- Studying biomolecular activity in water requires overcoming THz wave attenuation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a terahertz microfluidic chip for improved THz wave transmission in aqueous samples.
- To investigate the influence of ion hydration and external electric fields on hydrogen bonding in water using THz spectroscopy.
Main Methods:
- Designed a sandwich-type terahertz microfluidic chip with high THz wave transmission.
- Employed terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) to analyze various ammonium salt solutions (0.9 mol/L NH4Cl, (NH4)2SO4, (NH4)2CO3, CH3COONH4) and distilled water.
- Examined the effect of electric field application time on hydrogen bonds.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in THz spectra were observed among different ammonium solutions at the same concentration.
- Ion hydration processes were found to impact intermolecular hydrogen bonding in water.
- Applied electric fields also altered water's hydrogen bonding, affecting THz wave absorption.
Conclusions:
- The developed microfluidic chip enhances THz spectroscopy for aqueous samples.
- Ion hydration and electric fields are critical factors influencing water's hydrogen bond network and THz absorption properties.
- This technique offers a new avenue for studying biochemical processes in aqueous environments.
