A Theoretical Analysis of the Deactivation of Metal Surfaces upon Carburization.

The catalytic activity of transition metal surfaces can be altered significantly by the deposition of carbon adlayers. In the case of nickel surfaces, several catalytic processes are enhanced. For the case of tungsten, a reconstruction occurs and the resultant surface activity is associated with both structural and electronic changes induced by the deposition of carbon. Recent experimental studies on transition metal carbides and carburized transition metals have suggested that the carbon, either present in the bulk or exposed at the surface, affects the adsorption properties of simple gaseous adsorbates.