On-surface synthesis of size- and shape-controlled two-dimensional Aun nanoclusters using a flexible fullerene molecular template

Abstract

Synthesizing nano-clusters with a well-defined size, shape, and composition is an important and challenging goal in nanotechnology. Here we report the application of a single layer C₆₀ molecule as an effective molecular template for the synthesis of size- and shape-selected two-dimensional gold clusters (Au_n) on a graphite substrate. This molecular template facilitates the preferential formation of Au₁₉ clusters with a selectivity as high as 90%. Density-functional-theory (DFT) calculations found an energy minimum associated with C₆₀-stabilized two-dimensional Au₁₉ clusters.