Benzotriazole (BTAH) has been used
as a copper corrosion inhibitor
since the 1950s. However, the molecular level detail of how adsorption
and surface passivation occur remains a matter of debate. BTAH adsorption
on a Cu(111) single crystal has been investigated from medium coverage
to multilayer using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), temperature-programmed
desorption (TPD), high resolution electron energy loss (HREEL) spectroscopy
and supporting density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Both
physisorbed and chemisorbed phases are observed. One extended and
highly ordered self-assembled metal−organic phase is seen
at saturation coverage and above. A metastable phase is also observed.
Complete desorption occurs at ca. 600 K. Those structures are critically
discussed in the light of some of the various adsorption models reported
in the literature and an alternative adsorption model is proposed.
These results allow a further understanding of the interaction between
benzotriazole and copper and, in turn, may help understanding the
mechanism for protection of copper and copper alloys from corrosion,
substantially contributing to a long-standing debate.