Oxide film formation and oxygen adsorption on copper in aqueous media as probed by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

A study was conducted relating to research on the nature and occurrence of copper surface oxidation in aqueous solution-related ambient environments. Surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy was used to probe the surface structural changes linked to potential dependent oxidation and reduction of copper in alkaline, neutral and acidic media. Experimental methodology, findings and implications are discussed. Results are also compared with evidence derived from previous experiments which confirm adsorbed oxygen on copper electrodes.