Paper BI+AS-TuA1
Electrochemical Surface Reactivity of Catechol Derivatives: Competitive Adsorption and Ion Effects

Tuesday, October 22, 2019, 2:20 pm, Room A120-121

Catechols are molecules well known for their participation in important biological processes such as neurotransmission and bioadhesion. Their adhesive properties are of great interest for the development of biocompatible glues and coatings. In particular, L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA) has been found to play a defining role in the attachment of mussel feet to organic and inorganic surfaces in wet environments. Its electrochemistry has been widely studied, but the possibilities of many other catechols in this field remain largely unexplored, as is the effect of diverse ionic media in which their properties could be improved.

By using several electrochemical techniques and comparing to a well-known model system, we have obtained an understanding of the redox mechanisms involved in the interaction of these molecules at a metallic interface. Reaction parameters such as diffusion coefficients and reaction constants have been determined in different ionic media.

This fundamental insight allows us to set catechols in the context of their role within interfacial phenomena. Our approach enables the elucidation of free energies that characterize the energy landscape of adhesion processes at electrified interfaces, which can then bridge the gap between bulk electrochemistry and single-molecular surface-force analysis techniques. Full energy pathways can be drawn based on combined results and lead to a wide range of possibilities in the development of catechols for specific applications.