Modular synthesis, spectroscopic characterization and in situ functionalization using "click" chemistry of azide terminated amide containing self-assembled monolayers

A general and modular synthetic route is developed for the synthesis of azidoalkylthiol molecules, which contain an amide functional group, from common and easily available precursors. SAMs (self-assembled monolayers) formed by these amide containing azidoalkylthiols are characterised by attenuated total reflectance FTIR spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, contact angle goniometry and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Signature peaks are identified in the data which allows direct observation of all the functional groups on Au electrodes bearing these monolayers. The terminal azide group is functionalised with electroactive ferrocene group in situ, using "click" chemistry. An alkyne bearing heme derivative is covalently attached using the same technique resulting in O-2 reducing electrodes.