Numerical modeling of polymolecular adsorption of argon on a model amorphous oxide

Using the Monte Carlo method for the grand canonical ensemble, we have calculated the Ar adsorption isotherms in the range 77–107 K on an inhomogeneous surface with random close packing of spheres (the Bemal model), representing oxygen ions in a model oxide. The isotherm at 77 K is very close to the standard Ar adsorption isotherm on nonporous silica. The difference involves the weak step character of the calculated isotherm. The adsorbate on the model oxide at 77 K has a layered structure, reminiscent of the structure of Ar on the basal face of graphite, but significantly more extended. The atomic area of Ar depends on the method for determination of the capacity of the monolayer and lies within the range 0.1–0.13 nm2.