Infrared spectra in the Ag₂O-CO₂-Ag₂CO₃ system

Abstract

The infrared spectrum of silver oxide, Ag₂O, has been clarified by comparison with that of silver carbonate. In the region 4000-400 cm^-l the spectrum consists of one broad band centred around 530 cm^-l, other bands being accounted for in terms of normal, basic, and complex carbonates and surface hydroxyl groups, which are frequently present as contaminants. Conditions for the preparation, storage, and purification of silver oxide to minimize carbonate contamination are defined.