Self-organization and tunable characteristic lengths of two-dimensional hexagonal superlattices of nanowires directly grown on substrates

The organization of nano-objects on macroscopic surfaces is a key challenge for the technological improvement and implementation nanotechnologies. For achieving operational functions, it required to assemble as controllable building blocks in highly ordered superstructures. Herein, we demonstrate growth self-organization metallic nanowires into hexagonal superlattices with tunable characteristic lengths depending stabilizing surfactants employed. Starting from reacting mixture containing Pt(111) substrate, Co organometallic precursor, an amine, acid dissolved solvent, quantify structural evolution vertical single-crystalline Pt, using combined analysis small angle neutron scattering, transmission, scanning electron microscopies. We show concerted steps spontaneous two-dimensional (2D) lattice at intervals starting few hours reaction superlattice longer times. Furthermore, shown that apart long-chain aliphatic amine pairs used stabilizers, combination short-chain aromatic ligand synthesis can also be employed nanowire development. Interestingly, possibility employ different allows quantitative modulation arrays, such interwire distance packing fraction.