High Resolution THz Studies of Crystalline Channel Hydrates

In this study, we use vibrationally state-resolved THz spectroscopy to examine the phonon mode structure of several peptides and carbohydrates co-crystallized with water. Studies are performed before and after the water is removed under vacuum on a range of systems for water in hydrophobic and hydrophilic environments. Predictions from first principles calculations are used to model the observed spectra and to obtain detailed energetic information on the dehydration processes. A new phase-coherent heterodyne method based on chirped THz pulses may be discussed.