Versatile Micropatterns of N-Heterocyclic Carbenes on Gold Surfaces: Increased Thermal and Pattern Stability with Enhanced Conductivity

Patterned monolayers of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) on gold surfaces were obtained by microcontact printing of NHC-CO₂ adducts and NHC(H)[HCO₃ ] salts. The NHC-modified areas showed an increased conductivity compared to unmodified gold surface areas. Furthermore, the remaining surface areas could be modified with a second, azide-functionalized carbene, facilitating further applications and post-printing modifications. Thorough elucidation by a variety of analytical methods offers comprehensive evidence for the viability of the methodology reported here. The protocol enables facile access to versatile, microstructured NHC-modified gold surfaces with highly stable patterns, enhanced conductivity, and the option for further modification.