Stable, self-activated nitron-based monolayer on Pt surfaces and its application as a chemical handle for functionalization

NHCs were shown to form versatile, stable monolayers on metallic surfaces, however, they require activation prior to their deposition either by base or heating. We show that the analytical reagent nitron, which tautemerizes into a carbene form in solution, can form stable monolayers on platinum. Since the tautomerizations occurs spontaneously, the reagent is self-activating, and thus does not leave base or salt residues on the surface. The monolayer was found to be thermally stable, and was not displaced by thiols, showing its high chemical stability. The amine group on the nitron was shown to be a chemical handle for post deposition modifications of the monolayer using a simple SN₂ reaction, making it a cross linking reagent for surface modifications.