Adsorbate-Induced Modification of the Confining Barriers in a Quantum Box Array

Area of Science:

• Surface science
• Quantum physics
• Materials science

Background:

• Quantum devices require addressable elements for separate modification and interaction.
• Self-assembled networks, like porous (metal-)organic frameworks, can create arrays of identical quantum boxes.
• Electronic surface states confined within these pores form the basis of quantum confinement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the local modification of electronic quantum box states and interbox coupling.
• To explore the use of adsorbates for engineering quantum states in on-surface networks.

Main Methods:

• Formation of porous (metal-)organic networks via self-assembly on surfaces.
• Selective adsorption of molecules (e.g., C60) onto the network barriers.
• Investigation of the effects of adsorbates on the electronic quantum box states and interbox coupling.

Main Results:

• Adsorbates selectively modify the electronic quantum box states and interbox coupling to varying extents.
• C60 molecules interacting with the barrier demonstrate tunable control over quantum states.
• The approach enables localized engineering of quantum states within the network architecture.

Conclusions:

• Adsorbate-based modification offers a versatile method for engineering quantum states in on-surface networks.
• This technique provides a pathway for designing tailored quantum architectures for future quantum devices.