In-situ XPS investigation of nitric oxide adsorption on (111), (310), and (533) gold single crystal faces

Decomposition of nitric oxide on the flat (111) and stepped (310) and (533) faces of gold single crystals was investigated by in-situ X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy at elevated NO pressures up to 7 Pa and temperatures between 300 K and 500 K. The adsorbed layer formed on the gold surfaces at these conditions was found to contain nitrogen adsorbed atomically and/or nitrous oxide. The population of these adspecies was found to be dependent upon the crystal structure of the Au face, as well as the sample temperature and NO pressure. Explanations for these phenomena are discussed.