X-ray studies of the interface between two polar liquids: neat and with electrolytes

• DOI: 10.1039/b405555a
• Publication Date: 2004-12-17T15:57:51Z
• Authors: Guangming Luo; Sarka Malkova; Sai Venkatesh Pin...; David G. Schultz; Binhua Lin; Mati Meron; Timothy J. Graber; Jeffrey Gebhardt; Petr Vanysek; Mark L. Schlossman
• Keywords: Nitrobenzene; Capillary wave; Rigidity (electromagnetism); X-ray reflectivity; Flexural rigidity

We demonstrate the use of X-ray reflectivity to probe electron density profile normal interface between two polar liquids. Measurements interfacial width at neat nitrobenzene/water and water/2-heptanone interfaces are presented. These widths consistent with predictions from capillary wave theory that describe thermal fluctuations determined by tension bending rigidity interface. Variation temperature water/nitrobenzene 25 degrees C 55 indicates role decreases increasing temperature. measurements electrified an aqueous solution BaCl2 a nitrobenzene TBATPB sensitivity these electrolyte distribution A preliminary analysis data illustrates inadequacy simplest, classical Gouy-Chapman distribution.