We present a systematic multiconfigurational study of the lowest two doublet potential energy surfaces of atomic aluminum with molecular oxygen. the most likely products, AlO and AlO_2, are expected to figure prominently in subsequent reactions to form Al_2O_3. The main reaction pathways on both surfaces invariably lead to the formation of cyclic AlO_2, possibly followed by summarization to the lower-energy linear AlO_2 isomer. a reaction path leading from Al+O_2 directly to AlO+O was not located. However, both AlO_2 isomers can dissociate to AlO+O with no barrier beyond endothermicity. There is also no barrier for the reaction of AlO_2 with AlO to form Al_2O_3, and this reaction is highly exothermic.
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