CO2 adsorption on the bimetallic Zn-on-Cu(1 1 0) system

Adsorption probability measurements (molecular beam scattering) have been conducted to examine the adsorption dynamics (i.e. the gas-surface energy transfer processes) of CO₂ adsorption on the Zn-on-Cu(1 1 0) bimetallic system. The results indicate surface alloy formation, which is in agreement with prior studies. Depositing Zn at 300 K on Cu(1 1 0), above the condensation temperature of CO₂, leads to a “blocking” of CO₂ adsorption sites by Zn which is incorporated in the Cu(1 1 0) surface. This apparent site blocking effect indicates a lowering of the CO₂ binding energy on the alloyed surface as compared with the clean Cu(1 1 0) support. The Zn coverage has been calibrated by Auger electron spectroscopy and thermal desorption spectroscopy.