An XPS study of Al2Au and AlAu4 intermetallic oxidation

Samples of Al2Au and AlAu4 were examined using XPS after controlled oxidation in air. AlAu4 showed a strong tendency to oxidize compared to Al2Au. The binding energies (b.e.) of Au 4f and Al 2p XPS emissions were determined for both intermetallics. Heavy oxidation of AlAu4 resulted in a unique Au 4f emission near the surface which was attributed to Au dissolved in aluminum oxide.