Abstract: The underpotential deposition(UPD) of zinc from alkaline media on Au substrate has been studied by cyclic voltammetry and chronoampermetry. Experimental conditions such as the concentration of zinc precursor and scanning rate have been investigated. The analysis of the experimental data clearly showed the UPD process was initiated at -0.935 V(vs.SCE). In adaition, the concentration change of metal cation may affect the kinetics of the UPD process. The potentiostatic transients suggested an adatom-incorporation limited, two-dimensional(2D) instantaneous nucleation and growth mechanism. In addition, the adsorption of hydroxyl group could exert significant influence on the UPD of zinc on Au.

Key words: zinc, Au electrode, underpotential deposition