Laser-induced fluorescence in iron pentacarbonyl: An experimental account

Steven James Duray, Purdue University

Abstract

The technique described involves resonantly populating the first carbonyl overtone in iron pentacarbonyl with an i.r. laser and observing the laser induced fluorescence that occurs at the fundamental. Selectivity comes from the target of excitation, namely, the overtone. Temporal resolution and sensitivity will depend on the detector and the lifetime of the fluorescence. Laser induced fluorescence is observed. Results of the laser induced fluorescence via direct overtone excitation show that the cascade effect does occur, hence supporting the prediction of step-wise vibrational relaxation. All fluorescence decays collected reveal a component with a long lifetime. It is believed that an increase in translational temperature from non-resonant collisions repopulates the ($\upsilon$ = 1) vibrational level in iron pentacarbonyl resulting in an increased observed lifetime. Overall, the technique shows promise for use as a tool for the study of infrared transient species and vibrational relaxation.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Grant, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Chemistry

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