Surface Modification through Chemically Adsorbed Monolayer of Thiophene Molecules

Abstract

Using a time-averaged dielectrophoretic force from an applied electric field, we have observed the assembly of a chemically adsorbed monomolecular layer (CAM) on microwires and connections and the formation of an electric path between a lithographically patterned array of two platinum (Pt) electrodes. A Pt electrode/monolayer/Pt electrode junction was fabricated by the self-assembly of a rigid monomolecular layer, namely 3-{6-[11-(trichlorosilyl)undecanoyl]hexyl} thiophene (TEN) with thiophene groups in the lateral direction between the Pt electrodes. Conductive probe AFM (CP-AFM) was used to investigate the forward bias conduction properties of a TEN film grown by a wet deposition process on a glass substrate. The self-assembly depends on the ideal rigidity of the CAM and the strong affinity of the thiophene end groups of the CAM for the Pt electrode. The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of the conjugated thiophene junction exhibited stepwise features at room temperature. The I–V characteristics can be explained by electron transport through the junction. From the results of experiments carried out under ambient conditions, the conductivity of the laterally conjugated polythiophene groups was calculated to be 5.0 ×104 S/cm. Understanding and using these effects will allow the controlled fabrication and positioning of microwires or connections at densities much greater than those now achievable.