Abstract
In the last decade it has become possible to resolve the geometric structure of organic molecules with intramolecular resolution using high resolution scanning probe microscopy (SPM), and specifically using the subset of SPM known as noncontact atomic force microscopy (ncAFM). In world leading groups it has become routine not only to perform sub-molecular imaging of the chemical, electronic, and electrostatic properties of single molecules, but also to use this technique to track complex on-surface chemical reactions, investigate novel reaction products, and even synthesise new molecular structures one bond at a time. These developments represent the cutting edge of characterisation at the single chemical bond level, and have revolutionised our understanding of surface-based chemical processes.
Highlights
A noteworthy feature of Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques is that the acquired data directly corresponds to real-space measurements, allowing an ‘image’ of the surface to be produced (in contrast to techniques such as X-ray crystallography and low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) where ensemble reciprocal space measurements are converted to produce a real-space structure)
Since 2018 he has held his current position at the University of Leeds, where his research interests are focused on understanding the nature of interatomic and intermolecular forces via ultra-high-resolution scanning probe microscopy techniques
SPM measurements can be performed in ambient, liquid, and even electrochemical environments, here we focus on ultra-high vacuum (UHV) studies conducted at cryogenic temperatures (e.g. o5 K – achievable using liquid helium)
Summary
A noteworthy feature of SPM techniques is that the acquired data directly corresponds to real-space measurements, allowing an ‘image’ of the surface to be produced (in contrast to techniques such as X-ray crystallography and low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) where ensemble reciprocal space measurements are converted to produce a real-space structure). In parallel to the structural characterisation applications a significant feature of the SPM technique is the ability to investigate the progression of on-surface reactions and to allow the various stages to be characterised (i.e. initial, final, and even intermediate states).[5] This approach offers a route towards an in-depth mechanistic understanding of chemical reactions, down to the level of single-bond formation, which may facilitate methodologies that control the efficiency and selectivity of surface confined reactions.[6] SPM ‘images’ of the surface, . Since 2018 he has held his current position at the University of Leeds, where his research interests are focused on understanding the nature of interatomic and intermolecular forces via ultra-high-resolution scanning probe microscopy techniques
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