ADVANCED MATERIALS & PROCESSES | JULY 2026 7 SURFACE GEOMETRY KEEPS GOLD FROM TARNISHING Researchers at Tulane University, New Orleans, found that atoms on certain gold surfaces naturally rearrange themselves into protective patterns that dramatically suppress reactions with oxygen and thereby avoid tarnishing. The discovery helps explain why gold jewelry and other gold objects can remain untarnished for centuries and could also lead the way toward designing more effective gold-based catalysts for industrial applications. Using computer simulations that predict how atoms and electrons behave, the team studied how oxygen molecules interact with two common gold surface structures. They found that without this atomic rearrangement, oxygen molecules could break apart and react with gold much more easily. Instead, the rearranged surfaces suppress oxygen reactions by a factor of a billion to a trillion, creating a protective atomic-scale barrier that helps gold stay shiny indefinitely. The findings offer a new explanation for one of gold’s best-known properties while also opening the door to potential advances in catalysis. Gold-palladium catalysts are used to make vinyl acetate, a chemical building block for many plastics and other materials. Researchers are also studying gold catalysts for uses such as cleaning up carbon monoxide in car exhaust and making propylene oxide, a common industrial chemical. Researchers have traditionally tried to improve gold catalysts by combining gold with other metals or using tiny gold nanoparticles on oxide surfaces. The new findings suggest surface geometry itself may provide another route to enhancing gold’s catalytic activity. tulane.edu. New research at Tulane University helps explain how gold nuggets like these maintain their glitter. Courtesy of Dreamstime.com. WHAT’S IN YOUR 2026 MARKETING MIX? ASM INTERNATIONAL’S 2026 MEDIA KIT is YOUR GATEWAY to reaching a targeted audience of materials science and engineering professionals. ASM generates measurable impact by offering unparalleled access to engaging with a unique and motivated audience through integrated, omnichannel marketing capabilities. Develop a comprehensive campaign through sponsored emails, webinars, web and mobile ad placements, in-person event sponsorships, and more to target sizable audiences of decision makers. KELLY “KJ” JOHANNS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER CONTACT KJ TODAY AT: KJ.JOHANNS@ASMINTERNATIONAL.ORG OR 440.671.3851 VIEW THE 2026 MEDIA KIT AT: WWW.ASMINTERNATIONAL.ORG/ADVERTISE-WITH-US-RESULTS/
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