Observation of a methoxy species on Ni(111) by high-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy

The chemisorption and decomposition of methanol on Ni(111) has been studied by high-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy. We isolate and identify a methoxy species (CH₃O) which forms as a quasi-stable surface intermediate during the thermal decomposition of chemisorbed methanol. The methoxy species is bonded with the oxygen end nearest to the surface and the methyl group inclined at an oblique angle to the surface.