Time-resolved step-scan / rapid-scan FTIR difference spectroscopy investigation of electron, proton, and energy transfer in photosynthesis

by Dr Alberto Mezzetti ((IBiTec-S, CEA-Saclay, France and LASIR, Lille , France))

Friday 19 Mar 2010, 16:00 → 17:00 Europe/Rome

Aula Conversi (Dip. di Fisica - Edificio G. Marconi)

Time-resolved FTIR spectroscopy is a powerful technique for the investigation of physical, chemical and biochemical process. It is particularly well-suited for photo-induced reactions. We have studied several photosynthetic systems where light induces different photophysical and photochemical processes, such as electron transfer, proton transfer, energy transfer or triplet formation. The capability of the time-resolved technique to record simultaneously absorbance changes over a wide range of frequencies and therefore complete vibrational spectra at different times, has provided, through kinetic analysis, definite indication for band assignment. Furthermore, it has permitted to establish the concomitance or the non-concomitance between different events (e.g. proton and electron transfer) and to record complete spectra of short-lived transient states. The results will be discussed in the fram! ework of the current research in photosynthesis and in time-resolved vibrational spectroscopy.