Intermediates and Products of Ethanol Oxidation on Platinum in Acid Solution

Abstract

Abstract The adsorbate formed during ethanol oxidation in acidic solutions is studied by Fourier transform infrared reflection‐absorption spectroscopy (FTIR) at constant potential, on‐line (DEMS) and thermal desorption mass spectroscopy (ECTDMS). – As in the case of methanol adsorbate CO ad was identified by FTIR and in addition COH ad by ECTDMS. On‐line MS experiments showed the formation of methane during the cathodic sweep of the voltammogram. Main products of ethanol oxidation from the bulk are carbon dioxide and acetaldehyde.