The Bochum group developed special techniques using low-frequency terahertz radiation to determine the size of the hydration shell, i.e. the number of water molecules that are affected by an ion.

Researchers from the Institute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo have resolved a long-standing mystery of ion hydration. Their improved understanding of the ionic field explains water ...

At its core, this field examines how ions interact with water molecules, forming structured hydration shells that evolve over time. Such interactions influence reactivity, ion mobility, and the ...

Hydration water mapping around alcohol chains by THz-calorimetry reveal local changes in heat capacity and free energy upon solvation. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 2017; DOI: 10.1002 ...

Exclusive eBooks, infographics and online events Subscribe Now The researchers found that the hydration shells of sodium and chloride ions behaved differently in the electrochemical double layer. The ...

The result: Hydration shells with a size between two and 21 water molecules were determined for more than 37 salts investigated. The number depends for instance on the size of the ion and its valency.