Films of (3-mercaptopropyl)triethoxysilane with different hydrolysis time were formed on copper surface. To evaluate the influence of hydrolysis time on structures and corrosion resistance of these films, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, polarization curves, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy tests were performed on covered and uncovered copper specimens. Results indicate that the optimum hydrolysis time is 48 h. The film obtained in this case shows the best corrosion resistance in 3.5% (w) NaCl solution. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.