Pattern formation processes on single-crystal catalytic surfaces involve transitions between alternative surface phases coupled with oscillatory reaction dynamics. A qualitative Monte Carlo model was developed in order to describe dynamics of Pt(110) surface reconstruction under reactive conditions on atomic scale. Kinetics of a phenomenological time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau type were used which were known to give a correct qualitative picture of oscillations. However, the lattice dynamics model involved realistic effects of nearest neighbour interactions dependent upon the surface coverage. The surface phase distribution oscillated chaotically together with adsorbate coverage, and, in addition, underwent a slow roughening process, resulting in the growth of island size and an increase in the oscillation period.

Roughening of Catalytic Surface due to Reversible Surface Reconstruction Coupled with Oscillatory Dynamics - a Monte Carlo Study. M.Monine, L.M.Pismen: Catalysis Today, 2001, 70[4], 311-20