Complex k-uniform tilings by a simple bitopic precursor self-assembled on Ag(001) surface.

ABSTRACT: The realization of complex long-range ordered structures in a Euclidean plane presents a significant challenge en route to the utilization of their unique physical and chemical properties. Recent progress in on-surface supramolecular chemistry has enabled the engineering of regular and semi-regular tilings, expressing translation symmetric, quasicrystalline, and fractal geometries. However, the k-uniform tilings possessing several distinct vertices remain largely unexplored. Here, we show that these complex geometries can be prepared from a simple bitopic molecular precursor - 4,4'-biphenyl dicarboxylic acid (BDA) - by its controlled chemical transformation on the Ag(001) surface. The realization of 2- and 3-uniform tilings is enabled by partially carboxylated BDA mediating the seamless connection of two distinct binding motifs in a single long-range ordered molecular phase. These results define the basic self-assembly criteria, opening way to the utilization of complex supramolecular tilings.

SUBMITTER: Kormos L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7170884 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature