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Proton-Transfer Isomerization Driven by Strong Electric Fields in Aqueous Microdroplets.
Yu-Jia Qi1, Yue-Wen Zhou1, Juan Tan1
1Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, 29 Wangjiang Road, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|December 27, 2025
Summary
Aqueous microdroplets generate strong electric fields that drive proton-transfer isomerization. This method precisely controls chemical reactions and reduces the toxicity of environmental pollutants like 6PPD-Q.
Area of Science:
- Physical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Proton-transfer isomerization is crucial in chemistry and materials science.
- Conventional methods for electric field-driven isomerization face stability and operational challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the use of microdroplet-generated electric fields for proton-transfer isomerization.
- To explore the control of isomerization equilibrium and isomer distribution.
- To assess the potential for mitigating environmental pollutant toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized aqueous microdroplets to generate strong interfacial electric fields.
- Employed mass spectrometry (MS), SERS, UV-vis spectroscopy, and DFT calculations.
- Investigated the isomerization of 2,5-diamino-1,4-benzoquinone (DABQ) and 6PPD-Q.
Main Results:
- Microdroplet electric fields efficiently drive proton-transfer isomerization of DABQ via a water-assisted pathway.
- Interfacial electric field strength precisely controls isomerization equilibrium and isomer distribution.
- Spontaneous isomerization of 6PPD-Q in microdroplets significantly reduces its ecological toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Aqueous microdroplets provide a novel platform for studying and controlling proton-transfer isomerization.
- This approach offers a promising strategy for reducing the toxicity of environmental pollutants.
- Demonstrates precise control over chemical reactions using engineered electric fields.
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