Ultrafast electron solvation and transfer dynamics at protic-solvent/TiO2 interfaces

COLL 333

Hrvoje Petek, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260
We study the electron solvation and reverse charge transfer dynamics of partially solvated “wet” electrons at H2O and CH3OH covered TiO2(110) rutile surfaces by interferometric time-resolved two-photon photoemission. Charge transfer excitation from a defect band to the molecular overlayer excites partially solvated wet electron states at <1 – 3 ML coverage. The ensuing dynamics show indications of proton-coupled electron transfer and electron solvation. The role of surface OH termination and solvent mediated transfer at metal oxide interfaces is revealed.