Dibenzyl viologgen adlayer functionalzed graphitic surraces using electrochemical approach

Abstract

In this contribution, the electrochemciacl deposition method is used to synthesize uncharged dibenzyl viologen (DBV⁰) firm on HOPG surface. Electrochemical property and surface structure of the molecular adlayer are characterized by employing a combination of cyclic voltammetry (CV) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Consequently, the DBV⁰ molecules generated from the reduction of the corresponding DBV²⁺ molecules at the solid/liqid interface by applying suitable electrochemical potentials are able to physisorb and form a physisorbed adlayer on HOPG. The existence of the DBV⁰ adlayer on HOPG surface is also confirmed by its blocking effect with respect to the electron transfer at the interface of electroactive  [Fe(CN)₆]²⁺ molecules.