Facing the interaction of absorbed silicon nano-ribbons on silver

The atomic structure is one key property for any material. Despite great efforts during the last few years unveiling the internal structure of silicon nano-ribbons, analysis of the interfacial structure and bonding was neglected. We report on a comprehensive photoelectron spectroscopy and photoelectron diffraction study that reveals the weak interaction of silicon nano-ribbons with the underlying silver substrate identifying the specific locations of the individual silicon, as well as silver atoms. Furthermore, we provide unique experimental evidence that clarifies the origin of the two distinct chemically shifted components in the silicon photoelectron spectra.