On the stability of unreconstructed Au(100)-(1 x 1) at negative potentialsin aqueous sulfate solution

The stability of the unreconstructed Au(100) surface against potential-indu ced reconstruction, which occurs at negative potentials, has been investiga ted in sulfate solutions. It will be shown that electrochemical annealing o f Au(100)-(1 x 1) in a chloride-containing solution slows down the (1 x 1) -,(hex) transition to Such an extent that experiments with the unreconstruc ted Au(100) electrode become feasible over a wide potential range. Electroc hemical annealing removes surface defects which otherwise would act as nucl eation centers for the potential-induced reconstruction. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.