Chiral Adsorption Conformations of Long-Chain <i>n</i>-Alkanes Induced by Lattice Mismatch

The adsorption and self-assembly of n-alkanes on graphite not only find value in applications related to lubrication surface passivation but are also fundamental importance the study molecule/substrate interactions. Their is classically described by Groszek’s model commensurate registry, which confirmed high-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy studies. Nonetheless, role chain length-dependent lattice mismatch between has been considered. Here, a systematic various length at liquid/graphite interface reveals existence stability limit for classical straight conformation postulated model. Once critical reached, increasing induces swerved that chiral. Experimentally, as well computationally, crossover from determined be 40 50 carbon atoms.