In situ studies of the binding and reactivity of small molecules at metal electrode surfaces

This thesis encompasses several studies of the behavior of aromatic molecules on Au(111) single crystal electrode surfaces. In the first study, the initial stages of the binding and oxidation of phenol at high pH were addressed. Phenoxide binds to the electrode surface through the oxygen atom and is tilted away from the surface normal prior to oxidation, as shown with surface infrared spectroscopy (IR). The phenoxide forms a $\rm(\surd3\times\surd3)R30\sp\circ$ overlayer on Au(111). At the onset of oxidation, the molecule reorients to lie with the ring relatively parallel to the electrode surface as it polymerizes. Oligomers have been observed with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM).

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Chemistry

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

1996

Author dc:creator

• Richard, Katherine Marie

Contributors dc:contributor

• Gewirth, Andrew A.

• Chemistry, Analytical
• Chemistry, Inorganic
• Chemistry, Physical

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1996 Richard, Katherine Marie

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

9780591088373
AAI9702652
(UMI)AAI9702652

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/23229