Fabrication and electrochemistry study of multi-thiol coronary molecule monolayers

Single-component monolayer of novel multi-thiol coronary molecule and two-component mixed monolayer composed of coronary molecule and n-alkanethiol on gold substrates are described. The assembly of monolayers is characterized by ellipsometry, infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope. The electrochemical properties of the single- and two-component monolayers are evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments. Coronary molecule with multi-thiol groups has the ability to form stable monolayer via the interaction of mercapto groups and Au surface. Electrochemical impedance measurements indicate that 89.9% of the gold surface is blocked by the coronary molecule, which is attributed to the special spatial structure of the coronary molecule. The uncovered site on gold surface in coronary molecule monolayer could be occupied by the second suitable molecule. The mixed monolayer prepared by stepwise assembly of coronary molecule and n-alkanethiol has complete compact packing and few defects.