New azidation methods for the functionalization of silicon nitride and application in copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC)

In this study, a new direct functionalization method of silicon nitride (Si 3 N 4 ) using azidation and click chemistry is presented. First, amino groups (NH x ) were created on a Si 3 N 4 substrate by fluoride etching. These NH x ‐terminated Si 3 N 4 surfaces were analyzed by chemical derivatization X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy with 4‐trifluoromethylbenzaldehyde, and a derivatization yield of 20% was concluded. In the second step, freshly prepared NH x surfaces were transformed into azides, which were used immediately in a click reaction with halogenated alkynes. The presented combination of amination, azidation, and click reaction is a promising alternative for common silane‐based Si 3 N 4 functionalization methods. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.