Electron transfer during binding processes between thiolate molecules and Au nano-islands

Abstract We investigated electron transfer during the time-dependent binding processes between thiolate molecules and Au nano-islands by observing tunneling current with an interdigitated microelectrode supporting the sputtered Au nano-islands (IME@AuNI). The time-dependent optical and electrical signal variation during the binding process was examined for five kinds of thiolates. As the immersion time was prolonged, the optical absorbance increased, whereas the current passing through the IME@AuNI decreased. Importantly, the spectral and current characteristics depended on the thiolate structure, because of the formation of capping layer in accordance with thiolate structure. These results are mainly attributed to synergistic effects of electron transfer from Au nano-islands to thiolate molecules and bridging effects of thiolate molecules among Au nano-islands.