Stability assessment of gold surfaces functionalized with radical molecules by self-assembly and on-surface chemistry

We have investigated the radical functionalization of gold surfaces with a derivative of the perchlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) radical, using two methods: by chemisorption from the radical solution and by on surface chemical derivatization from a precursor. We have investigated the obtained self-assembled monolayers by photon-energy dependent X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Our results show that the molecules were successfully anchored on the surfaces. The monolayers are characterized by air and beam stability unprecedented for films of organic radicals. Over very long beam exposure we observed a dynamic nature of the radical-Au complex. The results clearly indicate that (mono)layers of PTM; radical derivatives have the necessary stability to stand device applications.