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Reduction of Au(CN) sub 2 sup minus in aqueous solution. Formation of nonmetallic clusters and colloidal gold

Journal Article · · Journal of Physical Chemistry; (USA)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/j100355a042· OSTI ID:6986080
; ;  [1]
  1. Hahn-Meitner-Institut Berlin GmbH (Germany, F.R.)

Au(CN){sub 2}{sup {minus}} is reduced by hydrated electrons and hydrogen atoms. Three primary reduction products, which are in protolytic equilibrium, are formed depending on pH: Au(CN){sub 2}{sup 2{minus}} + 2H{sup +} {l reversible} Au(CN){sub 2}H{sup {minus}} + H{sup +} {l reversible} Au(CN){sub 2}H{sub 2}. The absorption spectra of the three species, the pK values of their protolytic equilibria, and their rates of decay into Au{sup 0} + 2CN{sup {minus}} (or HCN) were measured by the method of pulse radiolysis. The absorption spectrum of the gold atom is also reported. The agglomeration of gold atoms yields intermediate clusters of nonmetallic gold and finally colloidal metal. Hydroxymethyl and 2,2-methylhydroxypropyl radicals can also reduce Au(CN){sub 2}{sup {minus}}, although the specific rates are low. Gold atoms have strong reducing properties, the standard potential of the system Au{sup +}/Au{sup 0} being -1.5 V. Various organic radicals are reduced by Au{sup 0}. It is proposed that these reductions do not occur as simple electron-transfer reactions but through hydrolysis of intermediate organo-gold compounds.

OSTI ID:
6986080
Journal Information:
Journal of Physical Chemistry; (USA), Journal Name: Journal of Physical Chemistry; (USA) Vol. 93:18; ISSN JPCHA; ISSN 0022-3654
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English