On-surface supramolecular chemistry – through which molecular and atomic units interact and form well-defined geometries – holds promise for the fabrication of nanostructures with atomic-scale precision and tailored electronic properties [1]. This project consists of using approaches of supramolecular chemistry to synthesise low-dimensional organic and metal-organic nano-assemblies on surfaces. The goal is to achieve solid-state interfaces with atomically precise morphologies, resulting in well-defined electronic structure, and with potential for efficient light absorption and photo-induced charge separation. The motivation stems from designing materials for efficient and cost-effective optoelectronic applications [2].
Systems of interest will consist of organic and metal-organic nano-assemblies on noble metal surfaces and thin insulating films. These systems will be prepared in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) and characterised in situ by means of low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS), as well as non-contact atomic force microscopy (ncAFM). X-ray-based measurements performed at the Australian Synchrotron will provide complementary chemical characterisation. Optical techniques will provide optoelectronic characterisation. International collaborations will allow for time-resolved studies of ultrafast photo-induced charge dynamics.
References
[1] Johannes V. Barth, “Molecular Architectonic on Metal Surfaces”, Annual Review of Physical Chemistry, volume 58, 375-407 (2007). [2] Gregory D. Scholes, Graham R. Fleming, Alexandra Olaya-Castro, and Rienk van Grondelle, “Lessons from nature about solar light harvesting”, Nature Chemistry, volume 3, 763-774 (2011).Supervisor: Dr Agustin Schiffrin
See https://www.monash.edu/science/schools/physics/honours/honours-project to apply.