Author:

Keywords:

chirality, odd-even, self-assembly, multicomponent, Science & Technology, Physical Sciences, Chemistry, Multidisciplinary, Chemistry, Alkylation, Complex Mixtures, Computer Simulation, Crystallization, Models, Chemical, Models, Molecular, Nanoparticles, Nanopores, Phase Transition, Porosity, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

Abstract:

Supramolecular self-assembly of suitably functionalized building blocks on surfaces can serve as an excellent test-bed to gain understanding and control over multicomponent self-assembly in more complex matter. Here we employ a powerful combination of scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and molecular modeling to uncover two-dimensional (2D) crystallization and mixing behavior of a series of alkylated building blocks based on dehydrobenzo[12]annulene, forming arrays of nanowells. Thorough STM investigation employing high-resolution spatial imaging, use of specially designed marker molecules, statistical analysis and thermal stability measurements revealed rich and complex supramolecular chemistry, highlighting the impact of odd-even effects on the phase behavior. The methodology and analysis presented in this work can be easily adapted to the self-assembly of other alkylated building blocks.