Resolving the complex structure of molecular networks.

The arrangement of molecules in molecular networks determines their physical and chemical properties. Addressing this fundamental issue requires proper structural characterization tools. Due to an overlap, interdigitation, tilting or stacking of molecules revealing the structure of the networks is challenging. Tebi et al (2015 Nanotechnology 27 025704) developed a clever approach that enables accessing the arrangement of individual molecules in complex chemical networks. The proposed method utilizes imaging and manipulation with scanning tunneling microscopy.