Evaluation Report Publications of the Academy of Finland 1/11

particular as regards the groups working in high-resolution and ultrafast 
spectroscopy. In addition, there are smaller activities with a strong local expertise or 
unique instruments. There are also singular examples of research activities at an 
unacceptable level.
The majority of the units reporting physical chemistry as a key component in their 
research activities are working in wood chemistry, polymer chemistry, printing chemistry, 
radiochemistry, etc. They are thus primarily working with the tools of physical chemistry, 
and are not directly engaged in developing new tools and techniques.
Experimental physical chemistry is generally demanding in terms of both 
resources and infrastructure, and, consequently, high-profile activities are less 

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frequently encountered in smaller research environments. At the same time, physical 
chemistry is also, through links to nanoscience and physics, often responsible for 
introducing new experimental techniques and analytical tools in chemistry. The panel 
is concerned that experimental activities in physical chemistry in Finland are 
becoming too weak. It is important that key competencies in experimental physical 
chemistry (electrochemistry, spectroscopy, etc.) be maintained and developed. The 
panel recommends that fundamental methodology-oriented research in experimental 
physical chemistry be strengthened.