Synthesis of graphite monolayer stripes on a stepped Ni(771) surface

Abstract

Graphite stripes on a stepped Ni(771) substrate were grown in situ by cracking propylene followed by annealing at optimal temperatures between 450 and 590° C. The samples were studied by means of C 1s and Ni 3p core-level photoemission and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. The C 1s spectra reveal a dominant graphite-like character. The phonon spectra measured in the direction parallel and perpendicular to the steps display certain differences, which can be explained on the basis of size-limited effects.