Versatile Micropatterns of N-Heterocyclic Carbenes on Gold Surfaces: Increased Thermal and Pattern Stability with Enhanced Conductivity

Nguyen DT, Freitag M, Körsgen M, Lamping S, Rühling A, Schäfer A, Siekman M, Arlinghaus H, Van der Wiel W, Glorius F, Ravoo BJ

Abstract

Patterned monolayers of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) on gold surfaces were obtained by microcontact printing of NHC-CO2 adducts and NHC(H)[HCO3] salts. The NHC-modified areas showed an increased conductivity compared to unmodified gold surface areas. Furthermore, the remaining surface areas could be modified with a second, azide-functionalized carbene, facilitating further applications and post-printing modifications. Thorough elucidation by a variety of analytical methods offers comprehensive evidence for the viability of the methodology reported here. The protocol enables facile access to versatile, microstructured NHC-modified gold surfaces with highly stable patterns, enhanced conductivity, and the option for further modification.