2D Self-assembled molecular networks and on-surface reactivity under nanoscale lateral confinement. (9th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Verstraete, Lander; De Feyter, Steven
• Is Part Of: Chemical Society reviews. Volume 50:Number 10(2021)
• Page Start: 5884
• Page End: 5897
• Publication Date: 2021-04-09
• Subjects: Chemistry -- Periodicals; 540
• DOI: 10.1039/d0cs01338b
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-0012

Abstract

Abstract : Lateral confinement at the nanoscale impacts the kinetics and thermodynamics of on-surface self-assembly, enabling fundamental insights in the assembly process as well as control over network morphology and reaction products. Abstract : Supramolecular self-assembly at surfaces provides a pathway for building chemically customized interfaces. Over the last three decades, research on the role of key parameters such as temperature, solute concentration, and molecular design has enabled a steady increase in the complexity of self-assembled molecular networks (SAMNs) that can thus be created. However, the structure and quality of SAMNs is often determined during the early stages of nucleation and growth. To study and influence self-assembly processes at this deterministic length scale, spatial confinement of molecular adsorbates to well-defined surface patterns with nanoscale lateral dimensions offers exciting possibilities. The aim of this tutorial review is to give an overview of the various ways in which confinement impacts SAMN formation, and how we can use that knowledge to direct assemblies towards desired structures. The possibility to exploit confinement for improved control over on-surface reactions is also contemplated.