Self-Assembled Monolayers
Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs) are thin films formed by the spontaneous organization of molecules on a surface. These molecules typically have a head group that binds to the surface and a tail that extends away, creating a structured layer. SAMs are often used to modify surface properties, such as hydrophobicity or chemical reactivity, making them valuable in various applications, including sensors and electronics.
The formation of SAMs usually involves alkane thiols on gold or silane compounds on silica. The process is driven by interactions like van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding, allowing for precise control over the film's thickness and composition. This makes SAMs important in nanotechnology and materials science.