Structural analysis of self‐assembled monolayers on Au(111) and point defects on HOPG

Gao, Jianzhi (2013). Structural analysis of self‐assembled monolayers on Au(111) and point defects on HOPG. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

In this thesis, I report findings from two projects conducted from Oct. 2009 to Dec. 2012. The first project involves the structural analysis of short-chain alkanethiol self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on Au(111). Methanethiol, ethanethiol, propanethiol, and methyl-propanethiol monolayers are prepared on the Au(111) surface using vapour deposition. The SAMs are imaged using scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) and structural transformations are followed as a function of surface coverage. The second project involves the creation and detection of various types of point defects on the surface of graphite with a view to obtain controlled doping in graphene and graphene-related materials. Nitrogen and oxygen are deposited onto HOPG using two different methods. Charged N and N\(_2\) were used from an ion source and shallowly implanted into HOPG. Several types of N were found, including interstitial and substitutional N. Oxygen was deposited as atomic O from a thermal cracking source. We found oxygen bonded to surface carbon atoms in both a top and bridging configurations. We have also investigated the deposition of small PtO particles on HOPG.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):