Synthesis and bonding of trans-dichlorobis(1,3-diaminopropane)ruthenium(III) chloride to a self assembled monolayer and its effect on conducting polymer sheet conductivity

We report the synthesis of trans-dichlorobis(1,3-diaminopropane)ruthenium(III) chloride. The molecular structure consists of a ruthenium metal complex and a chloride counterion. Electronic spectra of the solid complexes indicate an octahedral geometry around the ruthenium(III) metal center. We observe a UV-broadened band at 350 nm, a common absorption band in trans-ruthenium(III) amine and haloamine complexes. We also report, the single-crystal X-ray structures of the titled complex. The complex was shown to form a self assembled monolayer on quartz, which is a suitable substrate for deposition of conducting polymer PANI, PEDOT and PPy. We discuss key parameters which can be adjusted to tune both the physical properties of the Ru(III) surfaces and the sheet conductivity of the deposited conducting polymers thin films.

Graphical abstractWe have prepared a monolayer of transition metal complex (trans-dichlorobis(1,3-diaminopropane)ruthenium(III) chloride), by coordination to a self-assembled pyridine terminated alkylsilane coupling layer on fused quartz.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Synthesis of a new trans bis-bipyridyl ruthenium metal complex with single crystal X-ray analysis. ► The metal complex was successfully coordinated as a monolayer to the surface of fused quartz. ► Surface enhanced conductivity observed for in situ deposited polyaniline on modified surface.