A new cryogenic spectroscopy study has identified a phosphoric acid dimer structure essential for efficient proton transport, revealing insights into hydrogen-bonding configurations that contribute to its high proton conductivity. Researchers utilized helium nanodroplet infrared action and D₂-tagging infrared photodissociation spectroscopy combined with quantum chemical modeling to establish a structure termed A1, characterized by three hydrogen bonds among five oxygen atoms. This study emphasizes the importance of experimental validation in understanding complex molecular interactions of phosphoric acid in biological and energy contexts.
Newsletters
Receive the latest analytical science news, personalities, education, and career development – weekly to your inbox.