The ΔSCF method for non-adiabatic dynamics of systems in the liquid phase

Computational studies of ultrafast photoinduced processes give valuable insights into the photochemical mechanisms of a broad range of compounds. In order to accurately reproduce, interpret, and predict experimental results, which are typically obtained in a condensed phase, it is indispensable to include the condensed phase environment in the computational model. However, most studies are still performed in vacuum due to the high computational cost of state-of-the-art non-adiabatic molecular dynamics (NAMD) simulations. The quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) solvation method has been a popular model to perform photodynamics in the liquid phase. Nevertheless, the currently used QM/MM embedding techniques cannot sufficiently capture all solute–solvent interactions. In this Perspective, we will discuss the efficient ΔSCF electronic structure method and its applications with respect to the NAMD of solvated compounds, with a particular focus on explicit quantum mechanical solvation. As more research is required for this method to reach its full potential, some challenges and possible directions for future research are presented as well.