SiCaryl

SiCaryl is a term used in materials science to denote a class of silicon carbide (SiC) surfaces that have been covalently functionalized with aryl groups. The aim of this functionalization is to tailor surface chemistry for improved stability, selective binding of organic molecules, and enhanced interfaces with subsequent coatings or devices. SiCaryl surfaces are studied as a way to modify the surface properties of SiC without altering the bulk material.

Functionalization methods commonly described in the literature include covalent grafting via aryl diazonium salts on hydrogen-terminated SiC surfaces, which forms aryl–SiC bonds after reduction or grafting steps. Photochemical grafting is another approach, enabling attachment of aryl rings through light-activated reactions. Alternative routes use silane or siloxane chemistries that incorporate aryl moieties, sometimes preceded by surface pretreatment like plasma exposure to create reactive sites. The resulting surface features aryl rings covalently attached to the SiC substrate, with the precise bonding and orientation depending on treatment conditions.

Characterization of SiCaryl surfaces typically involves X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to confirm aryl carbon signals, infrared spectroscopy to detect characteristic C–H and C–C vibrations, Raman spectroscopy, contact-angle measurements for wettability, and microscopic techniques such as AFM or SEM to assess surface morphology. Electrochemical methods may be employed for sensor-oriented applications to evaluate interfacial properties.

Applications of SiCaryl-functionalized surfaces span chemical and biological sensing, protective or corrosion-resistant coatings, catalysis support, and electronic or photonic device interfaces. The term SiCaryl is not universally standardized; some researchers prefer "aryl-functionalized SiC" or "SiC-aryl." See also silicon carbide, surface functionalization, and diazonium-based grafting.