Reconstruction of a 2D layer of KBr on Ir(111) and electromechanical alteration by graphene

A novel reconstruction of a two-dimensional layer KBr on an Ir(111) surface is observed by high-resolution noncontact atomic force microscopy and verified density functional theory (DFT). The structure oriented along the main directions surface, but forms characteristic double-line pattern. Comprehensive calculations DFT, taking into account periodicities, resulted in new low-energy reconstruction. However, it fully relaxed common cubic when monolayer graphene located between substrate KBr. By using Kelvin probe microscopy, work functions reconstructed configuration were measured indicate, accordance with DFT calculations, difference nearly 900 meV. due to strong interaction local charge displacement K + /Br − ions which are reduced decoupling effect graphene, thus yielding different electrical mechanical properties top layer.