A Versatile, Fast, and Efficient Method of Visible-Light-Induced Surface Grafting Polymerization

To overcome the problem caused by the lability of the Au–S bond, we demonstrate the first use of Mn2(CO)10 for visible-light-induced surface grafting polymerization on Au surfaces in this paper. The visible-light-induced surface grafting of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) has the features of a “controlled” polymerization, which is characterized by a linear relationship between the thickness of the grafting layer and the monomer concentration. Ellipsometry indicated the formation of PNIPAAm films of up to ∼200 nm in thickness after only 10 min of polymerization at room temperature, demonstrating that this is a very fast process in comparison with traditional grafting polymerization techniques. Moreover, to demonstrate the potential applications of our approach, different substrates grafted by PNIPAAm and the covalent immobilization of a range of polymers on Au surfaces were also demonstrated. Considering the advantages of simplicity, efficiency, and mild reaction conditions as well as the ability of catecholic derivatives to bind to a large variety of substrates, this visible-light-induced grafting method is expected to be useful in designing functional interfaces.