Covalently Modified MoS₂ Bearing a Hamilton-Type Receptor for Recognizing a Redox-Active Ferrocene-Barbiturate Guest via Multiple H-Bonds

The covalent modification of the metallic phase of MoS₂ with a Hamilton-type ligand is presented, transforming MoS₂ to a recognition platform which is able to embrace barbiturate moieties via hydrogen bonding. The successful hydrogen bonding formation is easily monitored by simple electrochemical assessments, if a ferrocene-labeled barbiturate analogue is utilized as a proof of concept. Full spectroscopic, thermal, and electron microscopy imaging characterization is provided for the newly formed recognition system, along with valuable insights concerning the electrochemical sensing. The given methodology expands beyond the sensing applications, confidently entering the territory of supramolecular interactions on the surface of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides. The well-designed host-guest chemistry presented herein, constitutes a guide and an inspiration for hosting customized-structured functional building blocks on MoS₂ and its relatives via hydrogen bonding, opening up new opportunities regarding potential applications.