This research proposal focuses on the progress in the study of local interactions by Scanning Probe Methods (SPM). The research in this field is only possible due to our long-standing experience and equipment:

Nanolino: Combined STM/AFM at room temperature LT-STM and AFM: Combined STM and AFM at 4K
Nanolab: STM in ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) combined with MBE and ESCA

The force microscopy studies of molecules deposited on insulators is one approach to understand interactions between molecules and surfaces. The second approach is the combination of variable temperature STM experiments with manipulation experiments which gives insight into the interactions of confined molecules with their environment (molecular network).

The following research topics will be addressed in this period:

Nanolino:
The main topic within this research period will be the characterization of organic molecules on ionic surfaces by means of high resolution non-contact atomic force microscopy (nc-AFM). Different spectroscopic methods and modulation techniques will be developed to gain information on the structural, optical, and electronic properties of single molecules on these surfaces.
The second emphasis is on the imaging in the superlubricity mode. The high resolution capabilities in contact mode under these special conditions are to be investigated. The controlled transition from atomic stick slip to the superlubricity mode will be studied in combination with nanomanipulation. Is it possible to move molecules or nano-clusters by the combination of static forces and electrostatic actuation in a more controlled way compared to previous static mode manipulation protocols?

LT-STM and AFM:
The imaging of molecules on insulators at low temperatures will be one of the first questions to be addressed by this new instrument (co-funded by R’Equip). Systems, such as porphyrins on ionic crystals will be investigated at low temperatures to exclude thermal activation of the weakly bound molecules. The variable-temperature capabilities of the LT-STM/AFM will be used to investigate the libration of molecules confined in molecular networks.

Nanolab:
The main focus is the exploration of host guest assemblies at room temperature to provide the supramolecular systems to be investigated. Both the electronic and mechanical properties are studied by tunnelling spectroscopy and local manipulation experiments.