Abstract
In this paper we present formation and characteristics of tungsten oxide one dimensional structures. The system was prepared on Cu(110) surface by thermal evaporation in reactive oxygen atmosphere.
Electron diraction (RHEED, LEED) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used for investigation of the sample structure and morphology. Oxidation state of tungsten and other chemical properties were studied by means of photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS, SRPES).
Formation of a self-organized one dimensional tungsten oxide structures parallel to Cu [110] crystallographic direction was observed. The WO3x=Cu(110) nanosize epitaxial system was used for a methanol decomposition study.
Gas adsorption was carried out at the sample temperature below 115 K. Partial methanol dehydrogenation on the tungsten oxide nanostructure was observed immediately after adsorption.
Subsequent ash heatings at increasing temperature led to gradual decomposition and desorption of methanol and its complete disappearance at 350 K. Formation of methoxy group and other products was also observed during the process.