Interactions between glycine and amorphous solid water nanoscale films

► The interactions between glycine and ASW ultrathin films condensed at 100 K on to alumina surfaces were investigated. ► The hydrophobicity of the substrate (hydrophobic glycine film vs. hydrophilic alumina surface) influences the morphology of top-deposited water layers. ► ASW surface properties affect the chemical form of glycine adlayers.