Tulane researchers explain why gold resists tarnishing
6 reported
Researchers at Tulane University have identified a new reason why gold resists tarnishing, according to a study published in Physical Review Letters. The team used computer simulations to examine how oxygen molecules interact with two common types of gold surfaces. They found that atoms on certain gold surfaces naturally shift into protective patterns that make it extremely difficult for oxygen to react with the metal. This atomic restructuring reduces oxygen reactions by a factor of a billion to a trillion, creating an atomic-scale protective barrier. The finding explains why gold jewelry, coins, and other objects can retain their luster for centuries. It also suggests a new strategy for improving gold-based catalysts used in industrial manufacturing and clean energy technologies.
What’s reported
The study was published in Physical Review Letters on July 11, 2026.
Researchers used computer simulations to model how atoms and electrons behave on gold surfaces.
Atoms on two common gold surface types rearrange themselves into patterns that block oxygen reactions.
These reorganized surfaces reduce oxygen reactions by a factor of a billion to a trillion.
Gold-based catalysts are used in industrial oxidation processes, including producing vinyl acetate and removing carbon monoxide from vehicle exhaust.
The research suggests a new strategy for improving gold catalysts by controlling surface geometry and atomic arrangement.
Key figures
Matthew Montemore, associate professor in Chemical Engineering, Tulane University's School of Science and Engineering
Santu Biswas, postdoctoral fellow, Tulane University's Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
Sources: ScienceDaily
