Intrinsically patterned two-dimensional materials for selective adsorption of molecules and nanoclusters.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D) materials are crucial in various forms like monolayers and heterostructures.
• Current functionalization methods often rely on external patterning techniques such as soft lithography.
• Developing intrinsically patterned 2D materials is essential for streamlined fabrication and enhanced properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the growth of intrinsically patterned 2D materials.
• To explore the potential of these patterned materials as templates for molecular self-assembly and selective functionalization.
• To showcase novel patterning strategies for 2D material synthesis.

Main Methods:

• Growth of platinum diselenide (PtSe₂) monolayer on a platinum (Pt) substrate, resulting in alternating 1T and 1H phase patterns.
• Growth of copper selenide (CuSe) monolayer on a copper (Cu) substrate, exhibiting strain relaxation-induced nanopore formation.
• Demonstration of selective adsorption of different species onto the patterned surfaces.

Main Results:

• Successfully grown PtSe₂ monolayer with intrinsic triangular patterns of alternating 1T and 1H phases.
• Observed periodic triangular nanopore patterns in CuSe monolayer due to strain relaxation.
• Achieved selective adsorption of various species at specific pattern sites on both PtSe₂ and CuSe monolayers.

Conclusions:

• Intrinsically patterned 2D materials offer a new platform for controlled surface functionalization.
• These materials can act as templates for the self-assembly of molecules and nanoclusters.
• The patterned structures allow for the functionalization of a single substrate with multiple species.