Electron spectroscopic studies of the adsorption and decomposition of methanol on transition metals. A review

Results of investigations of the adsorption and decomposition of methanol on the surface of transition metals such as Fe, Ni, Cu, Pd, Ag, Mo, W and Pt byuv and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy and thermal desorption spectroscopy have been reviewed. The first step in the decomposition of CH₃OH on these metal surfaces is the formation of the methoxy species, OCH₃ radical. In the case of Fe, Mo and W, complete decomposition of CH₃OH occurs leaving CO(β), H₂ and CH₄ on the surface. Dissociation proceeds upto CO(α) and H₂ on the surface of Ni, Pd and Pt whereas on Ag and Cu, selective oxidation of CH₃OH to H₂CO is preferred. The difference in the reactivity of metals towards CH₃OH is rationalised from the heats of adsorption of O₂, CO and H₂ on these metals. Contribution No. 253 from the Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit.