A La Plata Journey through Frozen Molecules: Matrix Isolation Spectroscopy Studies

Matrix-isolation spectroscopy is a powerful and versatile technique in physical and analytical chemistry, enabling the detailed study of highly reactive and transient species under cryogenically stabilized conditions. By trapping molecules within an inert, rigid solid matrix—typically argon, nitrogen, or krypton at temperatures as low as a few Kelvin—this method effectively quenches thermal energy, suppressing diffusion and preventing chemical decay. This review highlights the application of this foundational technique in La Plata to explore multifaceted research centred on the generation, isolation, and characterization of novel molecular entities, elucidating their fundamental properties, reaction mechanisms, and reactivity. We present examples spanning the isolation of novel compounds, detailed conformational studies, the formation and analysis of molecular complexes, and the elucidation of photochemical mechanisms. The synergy between matrix-isolation FTIR spectroscopy and computational chemistry is emphasised as a basis for validating experimental findings and advancing molecular-level understanding.