Research

Chemical reactions induced by electrons contribute to many processes in nature and technology. For instance, electron-molecule collisions are the driving force of plasma generation and play a central role in mass spectrometry. Electron irradiation is an established tool to modify the properties of polymeric materials. Also, low energy electrons released upon impact of ionizing radiation such as hard UV radiation or X-rays make a significant contribution to radiation damage. It is even argued nowadays that such processes can contribute to chemistry occurring in the upper atmosphere and also in space. Electron beams, on the other hand, are not only a common analytical tool in surface science. They drive chemical reactions that modify surfaces, provide them with specific functionalities, and enable state-of-the art nanofabrication technologies.

Our research is concerned with the fundamental chemistry that underlies these phenomena and processes. It takes advantage of an international network of collaborations. Our projects are focused on the following topics:

Electron-controlled chemical synthesis

Electron-initiated chemistry for nanotechnology

Electron-driven surface modification and functionalization

Astrochemistry

These and other topics of current research on electron-induced chemistry can be found in the book Low-Energy Electrons - Fundamentals and Applications edited by Oddur Ingólfsson.