Characterization, conception and practical application of complex nano-structured liquids and their interfaces define the central research interests of the Regensburg Solution Chemistry Group.

The major focus is on homogeneous, transparent and thermodynami-cally stable liquids, such as solutions of electrolytes, surfactants, polymers, and bio-molecules (especially enzymes). But other systems, such as ionic liquids, micro-emulsions or structured solutions in supercritical carbon dioxide are also investigated. The self-organisation of molecular liquid systems and specific ion effects (e.g. the Hofmeister series) in nature and technology are in the center of interest.

To characterize structure, dynamics, reaction kinetics, and thermody-namic properties of such systems various experimental and theoretical methods are employed. From the view-point of basic research the interplay between solvation and association, between hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions, is explored to understand the self-organisation of molecular systems and its implications on the macroscopic properties of the sample.

The gained knowledge is immediately transferred to applied research. For instance liquid media for the optimization of industrially relevant enzyme reactions are designed. Other fields are the development of new cosmetics, or the conception of efficient electrolytes for high-energy batteries. Simulation programs are developed to predict the properties of complex industrial liquors.

Generally, the necessary high-precision equipement is designed and developed by the group in collaboration with the faculty workshops. Computerization of process control and data analysis is standard with currently about 40 PCs and 10 workstations involved.

In order to efficiently transform the obtained knowledge to the design of industrial products or new technical processes, the SKH Company for applied and technical chemistry was founded in 2000. The firm is recognized as an associate institute of the University of Regensburg.

An overview about recent and current research activities of the Regensburg Solution Chemistry group is given here.