We show how mixed composition monolayers self-assemble into nanometer- scale patterns and create complex structures on this scale. These patterns depend on film composition, deposition conditions, and subsequent processing. The exposed side of the film can be selectively modified by simple chemical processing. We assess the stability of these self-assembled structures by recording stop-action movies using scanning tunneling microscopy. We also show how we measure the electronic properties of single "molecular wires" inserted into nominally insulating monolayer films using tunable microwave frequency AC scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. We describe how substrate-mediated interactions found in low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy experiments may be used to self-assemble complex structures to the meso-scale and beyond with molecular precision.
This work is supported by ARPA, BRDC, NSF, and ONR.
Contact & presenting author:
Prof. Paul S. Weiss
(814) 865-3693 (814) 863-8081 fax
stm@psuvm.psu.edu e-mail
http://stm1.chem.psu.edu/ www homepage