Adsorption-induced polymerization of 3-methylthiophene at silver-coated glass surfaces and electroactive characteristics

► In this study, the adsorption of 3MT molecules on Ag surface is induced polymerization. ► The Raman spectra have proved that the molecular structures of P3MT are bonded between units to obtain a random molecular architecture, in agreement with the mode of inter-ring stretching. ► The reversible redox of P3MT-modified electrode possesses the electrocatalytic activity for the biosensing applications. The adsorption-induced polymerization of 3-methylthiophene (3MT) on silver vapor-deposited glass surfaces is investigated using micro Raman scattering and UV–Vis reflection spectroscopy. Both techniques provide the evidence of an adsorption-induced polymerization mechanism of these molecules, indicating that the orientation of 3MT molecules randomly distributes in the bulk poly(3-methylthiophene) film. The kinetics of 3MT adsorption-induced polymerization is also studied using Auger electron spectroscopy. The adsorption-induced polymerization process shows constant adsorption rate (0.15 nm min −1) within adsorption time of 1 h. Moreover, the electroactive characteristics of P3MT are employed to detect uric acid in phosphate buffer solution.