Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena · 1991 · 27 citations · 0 references
Natural SciencesChemistryMaterials SciencePhysical ChemistrySurface ChemistrySurface ScienceCluster ChemistryNanomaterial CharacterizationNanostructured SurfacesScanning Probe MicroscopySurface CrystallographySurface PhysicsAtomic-scale Surface ImagingCluster GeometryElectronic Structure AnalysisGold NanostructuresLigand-stabilized ClustersMicroscopyMolecular ClustersStructural Characterization Of Clusters
We investigated ligand stabilized clusters Au55(PPh3)12Cl6 and Pd561(phen)38±2O≊200 on gold and graphite substrates with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) under atmospheric conditions. We were able to image dense layers of clusters as well as free-lying clusters. Clusters are frequently picked up by the tip. This results in a tip with a well defined shape and electronic structure. Analysis of images of clusters scanned with another cluster attached to the tip can yield direct information on the tunnel distance. We found a tunnel distance of 24±5 Å.