Formation of c-C₆H₅CN Ice Using the SPACE TIGER Experimental Setup

Abstract Benzonitrile ( c -C 6 H 5 CN) has been recently detected in cold and dense regions of the interstellar medium, where it used as a signpost rich aromatic organic chemistry that might lead to production polycyclic hydrocarbons. One possible origin this benzonitrile is ice involving benzene ) nitrile molecules (organic containing −C≡N group). We have addressed plausibility CN formation pathway through laboratory experiments using our new setup SPACE TIGER. The TIGER experimental designed explore physics mantles laser-based processing product detection methods. found formed upon irradiation :CH 3 binary mixtures with 2 keV electrons Ly α photons at low temperatures (4−10 K). Formation was also observed when CH were embedded CO matrix, but efficiently quenched O matrix. results presented work imply could contribute only if these species are present on top or CO-rich layer, instead being mixed into O-rich layer.