Wave-packet study of H2 formation on a graphite surface through the Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism

Abstract

We have studied the formation of the H2 molecule on a graphite surface, when both H atoms are initially physisorbed. The graphite surface is assumed to be planar. The interaction potential is modeled to reproduce the experimental properties of H physisorption on graphite. Extending our previous work [S. Morisset, F. Aguillon, M. Sizun, and V. Sidis, J. Chem. Phys. 121, 6493 (2004)], full-dimensionality quantum calculations are presented for collision energies ranging from 4 to 50 meV. It is shown that the reaction occurs with a large cross section and produces the H2 molecule with a considerable amount of vibrational energy. The mechanism is either direct or involves the formation of an intermediate complex.