Spectroscopy

Quantum mechanics

Chemical physics

Photochemistry

Materials science

Chromatography

Physics

Nanotechnology

Organic chemistry

Characterization (materials science)

Ion trap

Ionic bonding

Mass spectrometry

Chemistry

Infrared spectroscopy

Absorption spectroscopy

Chemistry - A European Journal

Cryogenic ion trap vibrational spectroscopy paired with quantum chemistry currently represents the most generally applicable approach for the structural investigation of gaseous cluster ions that are not amenable to direct absorption spectroscopy. Here, we give an overview of the most popular variants of infrared action spectroscopy and describe the advantages of using cryogenic ion traps in combination with messenger tagging and vibrational predissociation spectroscopy. We then highlight a few recent studies that apply this technique to identify highly reactive ionic intermediates and to characterize their reactive sites. We conclude by commenting on future challenges and potential developments in the field.

Identification of Active Sites and Structural Characterization of Reactive Ionic Intermediates by Cryogenic Ion Trap Vibrational Spectroscopy