Stable, carbene-functionalized composite materials and methods and uses thereof are provided. The carbene-functionalized composite materials comprise a material having a metal surface and a carbene layer that is uniform, contaminant-free (metal oxide, etc), and more stable than thiol-functionalized monolayers. Studies are described that demonstrate carbene as a coating on steel, as well as other metals. Studies are described that demonstrate carbene as a primer for a topcoat on steel.