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Direct Observation of Surface‐Controlled Self‐Assembly of Coordination Cages by Using AFM as a Molecular Ruler
Author(s) -
Levi Stefano A.,
Guatteri Paolo,
van Veggel Frank C. J. M.,
Vancso G. Julius,
Dalcanale Enrico,
Reinhoudt David N.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
angewandte chemie international edition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.831
H-Index - 550
eISSN - 1521-3773
pISSN - 1433-7851
DOI - 10.1002/1521-3773(20010518)40:10<1892::aid-anie1892>3.0.co;2-j
Subject(s) - atomic force microscopy , monolayer , self assembled monolayer , nanotechnology , microcontact printing , self assembly , x ray photoelectron spectroscopy , ruler , scanning tunneling microscope , materials science , molecular electronics , chemistry , molecule , physics , chemical engineering , organic chemistry , engineering , quantum mechanics
Such a self‐assembly on a surface has not before been considered : Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used as a “molecular ruler” to observe the direct assembly of coordination cages on self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs). A simple process was employed using microcontact‐printed (μCP) modified substrates. Metal‐induced self‐assembly of cavitand‐based cages on SAMs (see picture) was proven by means of electrochemistry, contact‐angle, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. AFM measurements on individual molecules has enabled the observation of the coordination process on a single‐molecular level.