The interaction of O2 with gold foil and gold nanoparticles grown by vapor deposition on TiO2(110) was studied by in situ ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (AP-XPS). No spontaneous dissociation of O2 was observed either on Au foil or on Au nanoparticles up to one atmosphere of O2. X-ray irradiation, however, is very effective in promoting gold oxidation on both surfaces in the presence of O2. These results help reconcile recent conflicting experimental observations regarding the activation of molecular oxygen on Au nanoparticles, which is at the core of their catalytic performance in oxidation reactions.

Activation of O<sub>2</sub> by gold nanoparticles?
In situ ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study

239th National Meeting (2010)

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Activation of O2 by gold nanoparticles? In situ ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study

Activation of O₂ by gold nanoparticles? In situ ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study