Studying Properties of Nano-Scale Moieties Using Functionalized Self-Assembled Monolayers.

Abstract

This thesis is an edited collection of published and unpublished results pertaining functionalized self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). Chapter 1 introduces SAMs and the various systems under study; namely the rotating electroactive ferrocene molecule, selective adsorptions of l-Tartaric acid onto a Gemini type molecule, and azobenzenes capable of undergoing photoisomerizations. Chapter 2 covers the experimental section while Chapters 3 ~ 5 covers the results and discussion of the respective studies. Chapter 3: Self-assembling properties of ferrocenyl undecanethiol studied by scanning tunneling microscope (STM) in situ.Chapter 4: The selective adsorption of L-tartaric acid on Gemini-type self-assembled monolayers.Chapter 5: Reversible work function changes (N O Au) induced by the photoisomerization of asymmetric azobenzene dithiols selfassembled monolayers on gold.Chapter 6: Conclusions and future work pertaining to various studies.