Physical Chemistry

The group conducts fundamental experimental and theoretical research in gas-phase and surface chemistry, often inspired by challenges related to the environment, climate, atmospheric chemistry, and protein folding.

About Physical Chemistry

In Physical Chemistry, we investigate how molecules and small particles behave and react under different conditions. Our research provides insight into the chemical processes that influence climate, air quality, and the environment. We study everything from atmospheric particles and gases to novel molecules and their reactions.

To understand these processes, we combine laboratory experiments with advanced computational methods and modelling. Using approaches from spectroscopy, thermodynamics, photochemistry, and quantum chemistry, we explore chemical reactions at the molecular level and continuously develop new methods for studying increasingly complex chemical systems.

Head of Section

Research focus

  • Air Pollution and Atmospheric Chemistry
    Research into how gases and airborne particles affect climate, the environment, and human health.
  • Climate and Greenhouse Gases
    Developing knowledge and technologies to measure, understand, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Sustainable Energy Solutions
    Investigating energy transfer in molecular systems to improve green energy technologies.
  • Molecular Modelling and Quantum Chemistry
    Using advanced computational methods to predict molecular properties and develop new materials.
  • Chemical Reactions and Molecular Behaviour
    Research into how molecules react, interact, and break down.
  • Advanced Analytical Methods and Sensor Technologies
    Developing new methods to measure and monitor chemical processes and environmental conditions

Research Groups

The group's approach, combining both experimental and theoretical methods, focuses on the properties of atmospheric aerosols, as well as the characteristics and reactions of novel molecules, radicals, dimers, and clusters in the gas phase, including isotope effects in chemical reactions.

Our research draws extensively on thermodynamics, spectroscopy, reaction kinetics and mechanisms, photochemistry, and applied quantum chemistry. The group continuously develops new experimental and theoretical methods to advance understanding in these areas.

Contact

Kurt Valentin Mikkelsen
Professor
  • Job responsibility
    Head of Section