Help searching for SAMs (self-assembling monolayers) for a project

In summary, the conversation discusses the search for a self-assembling monolayer (SAM) that can bind to triethylamine (TEA) and deposit onto graphene/TMD via evaporation. The desired SAM should have low toxicity and be an n-dopant to easily bind with TEA. The speaker has analyzed a list of potential SAMs but has not found a suitable one yet. The conversation also touches on the difficulty of covalently binding TEA and using it to electrostatically dope graphene, as well as the possibility of using non-covalent interactions with an acidic carboxyl group. It is suggested to look into other self-assembling adsorbates and Janus membranes for inspiration.
  • #1
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TL;DR Summary
Need help finding a Self-assembling monolayer that binds to Triethylamine that can be deposited onto a substrate like graphene via evaporation.
Does anyone know of a self-assembling monolayer that can bind to triethylamine,deposit onto graphene/TMD by evaporation, and that has "low toxicity" (that I could use in the lab)? P-dopants could only help dope one side of the material and TEA would react on the other but that is very hard to achieve. If it could be an n-dopant I think that would work to have the surface group bind readily with TEA. I have analyzed the entire list here Chem. Soc. Rev., 2018, 47, 6 but it is not good so far. Thx!
 
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  • #2
It’s unclear what you’re trying to do and whether or not what you’re proposing is the best way to do it.

Are you looking for a SAM that is covalently bound or not? SAMs that are covalently bound are easier to get good coverage with, but they degrade the conductivity of the material. Good covalent SAMs include just about any benzene diazonium salt. Good noncovalent SAMs are probably limited to functionalized pyrenes or other PAHs. There is a smattering of other self-assembling adsorbates (including graphene-binding peptides) that might be of interest to you. Typically deposition of all of the above is done in solution phase, not vapor phase. TMDs are more amenable to noncovalent SAMs, but I’m less familiar with the state of the art there.

Also, what do you mean by bind TEA? Covalently will be difficult; maybe a dative bond with an organoboron, or else forming a bond to make a charged ammonium. The other option is non-covalently through an acid-base interaction. This is probably your best bet: to use a fairly acidic carboxyl group to protonate the TEA and rely on the electrostatic interaction of the ammonium with the carboxylate.

BUT: it also sounds like you want to electrostatically dope graphene with TEA, which is usually a physisorptive interaction, so no acid-base. Moreover, you say you want to p-dope one side and (presumably) use TEA to n-dope the other side. Folks have done somewhat similar stuff in the past; look up “Janus membrane” for an idea of what’s been done. Like I said, it’s unclear what you’re after, so it’s hard to give good advice.
 

1. What are self-assembling monolayers (SAMs)?

Self-assembling monolayers are single layers of molecules that spontaneously arrange themselves into a specific pattern on a surface. They are commonly used in nanotechnology and materials science for their unique properties and ability to form precisely controlled structures.

2. How are SAMs typically used in research?

SAMs are used in a variety of research fields, including surface science, biotechnology, and electronics. They can be used to modify surface properties, create nanoscale structures, and act as templates for further functionalization.

3. What are some common methods for creating SAMs?

The most common method for creating SAMs is by using chemical vapor deposition, where molecules in the gas phase are adsorbed onto a surface. Other methods include Langmuir-Blodgett deposition, microcontact printing, and dip-pen nanolithography.

4. What are some factors to consider when choosing SAMs for a project?

Some factors to consider when choosing SAMs for a project include the desired surface properties, the type of substrate being used, the stability and reactivity of the SAMs, and any potential interactions with other molecules or materials in the system.

5. What are some resources for finding information on SAMs?

There are several resources available for finding information on SAMs, including scientific journals and databases, conferences and workshops, and online resources from research institutions and organizations. It may also be helpful to consult with experts in the field or collaborate with other researchers who have experience with SAMs.

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