2D materials are often functionalized noncovalently with lying-down phases of molecules such as functional alkanes; this strategy avoids disrupting extended electronic conjugation in the 2D layer, while modulating substrate physical properties. Noncovalent lying-down monolayers are typically less stable than their standing counterparts, generating some restrictions on processing environments. However, the unique combination of flexibility and larger lattice parameters in the monolayer structure promises substantial benefits in terms of nanoscale construction at the environmental side of the interface. Lying-down phases of diyne fatty acids and phospholipids, for instance, display 1-nm-wide functional patterns with a pitch ~5 nm, strikingly similar to the length scales of emerging needs in interface patterning for nanoelectronics, energy conversion, and crystallization. Here, we demonstrate the use of these functional templates for creation of high-density arrays of ultranarrow gold nanowires, and for nanoscale 3D crystallization of small organic molecules.

Escaping flatland: Noncovalent monolayers on 2D materials as a foundation for nanoscale 3D design

256th National Meeting (2018)

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