UV irradiation of benzene in N2 matrix: A relevant study for titan's chemistry

We report in this contribution the first photochemical study of benzene trapped in solid nitrogen at low temperature (16 K) and irradiated with a mercury lamp (lambda> 230 nm). We identify three benzene isomers (fulvene, Dewar benzene and benzvalene) and two radicals (phenyl and benzyne) as photo-dissociation products, along with acetylene derivatives and substituted benzene. We present for the first time the infrared spectrum of fulvene trapped in benzene ice, which is obtained after nitrogen sublimation. This solid-state characterization could be particularly useful for a better understanding of the photochemical fate of benzene ices recently detected in Titan's atmosphere. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study presents the first photochemical investigation of benzene trapped in solid nitrogen at low temperature, identifying various isomers and radicals as photo-dissociation products. The infrared spectrum of fulvene trapped in benzene ice is reported for the first time, providing valuable insights into the photochemical fate of benzene ices in Titan's atmosphere.