Femtosecond-laser processing of nitrobiphenylthiol self-assembled monolayers

► Femtosecond laser processing of nitrobiphenylthiol monolayers is investigated. ► Sub-wavelength patterning of nitrobiphenylthiol monolayers is demonstrated. ► Nitrobiphenylthiol monolayers act as positive-tone resists. ► Etching experiments provide no indications for crosslinking of the biphenyl backbones. ► Labeling experiments provide no indications for transformation of the nitro groups.