Angle resolved XPS of monomolecular layer of 5-chlorobenzotriazole on oxidized metallic surface

► Adsorption of 5-chloroBTA on oxidized metals is studied by ARXPS. ► When adsorbed, 5-chloroBTA forms a monolayer whose thickness is close to molecule size. ► According to ARXPS, the planes of 5-chloroBTA anions are vertical to a metal oxide surface. ► Metal cations of the surface coordinate nitrogen atoms of 5-chloroBTA. ► Chlorine atoms forming outmost virtual layer.