| Abstract: | A simple detection of light metallic deposits (e. g. nickel) on oxidic surfaces can be achieved by means of the spectroscopical measurement of the concentration of hydrogen atoms in the positive column of a glow discharge. – The kinetics analysis of the experimental results shows that the velocity of forming as well as the heterogeneous recombination of hydrogen atoms depend on the amount of nickel being deposited on the surface area. The kinetic data allow conclusions to be drawn concerning the process and velocity of metallic deposits on glass surfaces. The initial phase of film forming, hitherto experimentally difficult to follow, can thus be studied. Measurements of the electrical resistance show the island structure of the thin nickel films. Due to the surface diffusion of hydrogen atoms such a discontinuous film exhibits the same catalytic activity for the recombination of hydrogen atoms as a continuous film. |
