Electron-induced reactions in thin solid films of cyclopropane

Abstract

The electron-induced reactions of cyclopropane in the condensed phase have been induced and monitored simultaneously using a conventional high-resolution electron energy loss (HREEL) spectrometer. The reaction rate is fast enough for the reaction to be followed even at the sub-nanoampere currents typical of an HREELS experiment. The major initial reaction product is propene, as identified from characteristic vibrational bands. Subsequent reactions possibly lead to the formation of longer saturated chains. The reaction rate in the multilayer is considerably faster than at monolayer coverage. The findings are compared to literature data from recent studies on electron-induced reactions in self-assembled monolayers and adsorbed cyclopropane monolayers. The relatively fast reaction suggests that cyclopropane derivatives may be interesting candidates for use in surface patterning by electron beam techniques.