Elaboration of Self-Assembled Monolayers of n-Alkanethiols on Nickel Polycrystalline Substrates: Time, Concentration, and Solvent Effects

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of n -alkanethiols on mechanically polished polycrystalline nickel substrates are presented. The effects of several preparation conditions of the surface upon the metal/sulfur bonds and monolayer properties are evidenced. Of particular importance are the electrochemical reduction of the native oxide, the thiol concentration (10 - 3 versus 10 - 1 M), and the nature of the solvent (ethanol, acetonitrile, n -heptane, toluene, and carbon tetrachloride).