Electrochemistry of Molybdenum Single Crystals and Thin Wires in Cyanide and Gold Cyanide Electrolytes

Highlights Molybdenum single crystals and wires exhibit large pseudocapacitances in cyanide solution. Gold deposition takes place after partial reduction of the thin surface oxide. The partially reduced surface oxide may assist gold deposition prior to electrodeposition. Adsorbed intermediates are involved both in the deposition and dissolution of gold. The chemical adhesion of gold on molybdenum is weak and physical binding is a prerequisite.