Open circuit electrode stability constants

The spectroscopic verification of a stable alloy surface in UHV (ultrahigh vacuum conditions) has to be done at an open circuit, where, in the case of a single crystal surface, it means a stable double layer. However, when the single crystal has to be transferred to the electrochemical cell to perform adsorption or electrode reactions, the persistence of this situation is not obvious. A constant correlation between the open circuit potential and the electron binding energy of the double layer components (anion, solvent, etc.) has to be maintained [50]. When the rest potential lies at the onset of the oxide formation, there is a further stabilization, but this can produce spontaneous dissolution of the less noble metal of the alloy. Thus, air contact has to be avoided. 

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