Constructing covalent organic nanoarchitectures molecule by molecule via scanning probe manipulation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Tailored low-dimensional covalent assemblies are crucial for molecular electronics.
• Controlling size and connectivity in these structures is a significant challenge.
• Material properties are highly dependent on their specific quantum structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a versatile, block-by-block approach for constructing covalent assemblies.
• To demonstrate precise control over molecular structure formation.
• To enable the study of structure-dependent properties in novel nanoarchitectures.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing atomic force microscopy (AFM) on bilayer sodium chloride (NaCl) films on Cu(111).
• Employing a sequence of dehalogenation, translational manipulation, and intermolecular coupling.
• Tracking structural changes with single-bond resolution during synthesis.

Main Results:

• Selective synthesis of covalent homo-dimers (cis/trans) and homo-/hetero-trimers.
• Demonstrated formation of complex bonding motifs, including C-I-C bonds.
• Created fused carbon pentagons, showcasing advanced structural build-up capabilities.

Conclusions:

• This block-by-block AFM approach enables the synthesis of elusive covalent nanoarchitectures.
• It facilitates the study of structural modifications and intermolecular reaction pathways.
• Paves the way for designing novel quantum materials with tailored electronic and optical properties.