CO and H2O adsorption and reaction on Au(310)

We have studied desorption of 13CO and H2O and desorption and reaction of coadsorbed, 13CO and H2O on Au(310). From the clean surface, CO desorbs mainly in, two peaks centered near 140 and 200 K. A complete analysis of desorption spectra, yields average binding energies of 21 ± 2 and 37 ± 4 kJ/mol, respectively. Additional desorption states are observed near 95 K and 110 K. Post-adsorption of H2O displaces part of CO pre-adsorbed at step sites, but does not lead to CO oxidation or significant shifts in binding energies. However, in combination with electron irradiation, 13CO2 is formed during H2O desorption. Results suggest that electron-induced decomposition products of H2O are sheltered by hydration from direct reaction with CO.