Chemical Coordination Induced Fullerene Dimers on Hot Pt(111)

Z Zhao Liu (Institute of High Pressure Physics, School of Physical Science and Technology) A Antoine Hinaut (Department of Physics, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, Basel 4056, Switzerland) T Thilo Glatzel U Ulrich Aschauer (Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern 1 , Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern,) E Ernst Meyer (Department of Physics, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, Basel 4056, Switzerland)

Abstract

Abstract The fullerene family is known for its unique properties, facilitating the formation of large, lubricated nano‐onions and the fragmentation into small carbon clusters through various processes. In this study, we explore the thermal evolution of islands on Pt(111), focusing on the segregation of islands, the formation of fullerene dimers, and the subsequent development of large graphene sheets. Using noncontact atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy, we observed that after annealing at , the islands showed minimal change compared to their deposition at room temperature. However, at , pairs of separated dimers appeared, which, due to their low mobility, have the potential to transform into graphene quantum dots (GQDs). Further annealing at controlled and refined the quality and dimensions of the graphene patches. This process not only provides an effective method for producing high‐quality graphene but also permits to preserve isolated dimers on the Pt(111) surface, offering valuable insights for advanced synthesis and lubrication applications.

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 64, Issue 33
Published August 11, 2025
ISSN 1433-7851
Publisher Wiley

Journal Info

Angewandte Chemie International Edition

Wiley

ISSN: 1433-7851 Physical Sciences

Authors (5)

Z

Zhao Liu

Institute of High Pressure Physics, School of Physical Science and Technology

A

Antoine Hinaut

Department of Physics, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, Basel 4056, Switzerland

T

Thilo Glatzel

U

Ulrich Aschauer

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern 1 , Freiestrasse 3, CH-3012 Bern,

E

Ernst Meyer

Department of Physics, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 82, Basel 4056, Switzerland