N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes on a III‐V Semiconductor: From Chain Formation to Ordered Monolayers
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: N-Heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are established ligands for various surfaces, known for their strong binding, ability to form self-assembled monolayers, and modular structure. However, semiconductor surface modification with NHCs is still in its infancy despite its technological importance. Although previous studies focused on silicon, III-V compound semiconductors offer direct bandgaps and high electron mobilities, making them ideal for (opto-)electronics. This study examines the adsorption of different NHCs on GaAs, a prototypical III-V material, using scanning tunneling microscopy, density functional theory, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, and reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy. Covalent binding to the surface and the formation of well-ordered NHC monolayers are observed, along with exceptionally large work function reductions. The unique structural features of NHCs enable precise control over film structure, ordering, and electronic properties.
Authors: Martin Franz, Ankita Das, Sandhya Chandola, Milan Kubicki, Mowpriya Das, Andrea Sette, Domenico Corona, Maurizia Palummo, Letizia Chiodo, René Schöder, Preeti Chahar, Benjamin Fuhrmann, Jonathan Engelhardt, Oskar Düren, Dorothee S. Rosenzweig, Paul Bakos, Kai‐Luis Jakob, Mario Dähne, Conor Hogan, Norbert Esser, Frank Glorius
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,510
Awards: G1735225850, G2182299400, G7505612
OpenAlex ID: W4414407960