Monte Carlo Simulation of a Model for Growth Kinetics and Growth Mode of Metals Through Hydrous Metal Oxide Layers Electroreduction. Applications to Gold Overlayers

Abstract

A microscopic model explaining the modes by which metal overlayers grow from the electroreduction of relatively thick hydrous metal hydroxide layers is described and simulated by means of the Monte Carlo method. The potential applied for the electroreduction of the hydrous metal oxide layer appears to control the growth mode. Conclusions from the model are compared to experimental data for gold overlayers grown in acid solution from hydrous gold oxide layers by applying a fast, periodic, square‐wave perturbing potential.