In Situ FTIR-ATR Analysis and Titration of Carboxylic Acid-Terminated SAMs

Abstract

FTIR-ATR measurements permit detailed structural analysis and in situ titration of carboxylate-terminated self-assembled monolayers. Both monomeric and dimeric/oligomeric acid groups are seen, and their acid-base behavior is directly monitored. Monomers that are hydrogen bonded only to surrounding water molecules have a pKa = 4.9, while the pKa for the aggregated molecules is 9.3.