Spontaneous formation of metallic nanostructures on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG): an ab initio and experimental study.

We have investigated the decoration of step-edges of HOPG by Ag, Au and Pt using experimental and theoretical approaches. Metallic nanowires can be formed on bare or functionalized step-edges. Energy dispersion analysis indicates the presence of oxygenated groups.

The role of the organic layer functionalization in the formation of silicon/organic layer/metal junctions with coinage metals.

The design of silicon/alkyl layer/metal junctions for the formation of optimal top metal contacts requires knowledge of the mechanistic and energetic aspects of the interactions of metal atoms with the modified surface. This involves (a) the interaction of the metal with the terminal groups of the organic layer, (b) the diffusion of metal atoms through the organic layer and (c) the reactions of metal atoms with the silicon surface atoms. The diffusion through the monolayer and the metal catalyzed breakage of Si-C bonds must be avoided to obtain high quality junctions.