Inhibited single-electron transfer by electronic band gap of two-dimensional Au quantum dot superlattice

Abstract

The electronic density of states of two-dimensional (2D) Au quantum dot superlattice are explored by using cryogenic scanning tunneling microscopy and scanning tunneling spectroscopy. The 2D Au superlattice opens up a gap in its electronic density of states. The single-electron transfer of a single Au quantum dot can be effectively inhibited by this “artificial” forbidden gap. This finding opens a route toward modulating electronic energy band of solid on the basis of 2D metal quantum dot superlattice, which may generate materials with electronic properties for possible future electronic devices.