The Preparation, Characterization, and Surface Reactivity of New Amorphous Metals Prepared by Co-Condensation

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Amorphous metals represent a novel class of materials which exhibit new bulk and surface properties. Many amorphous metals show higher catalytic activity and selectivity than their crystalline counterparts. The freedom from thermodynamic constraints permits use of the amorphous phase as precursor to other unique metastable phases. Co-condensation is a very versatile method for preparing new amorphous metals and other metastable alloys with unusual properties. The direct combination of this method with modern surface characterization and catalytic testing produces a powerful approach to attack the fundamental questions associated with the unique surface properties of amorphous metals. A unique facility which permits preparation, characterization, study of surface reactivity and catalytic testing of amorphous alloys without removing the sample from the pristine environment of the UHV chamber has been developed with State of Texas support. In this proposal they are requesting funds to use this approach to study the surface structure and chemistry of amorphous refractory alloys to provide an understanding of their surface reactivity and basic information needed to ultimately explain unusual catalytic and corrosion properties. This proposal brings together the unique experience of D. L. Cocke in studying alloy surface reactivity with that of D. G. Naugle in the study and preparation of bulk and thin film amorphous metals to attack fundamentally the technologically important surface properties of amorphous materials. They emphasize that the major facilities for this innovative proposal are already in place; consequently, the principal need is for longer term operational funds.