Atomically precise mechanosynthesis of carbon structures on hydrogenated Silicon
Recorded: May 27, 2026, 4:03 p.m.
| Original | Summarized |
[2605.27250] Atomically precise mechanosynthesis of carbon structures on hydrogenated Si(100) by inverted-mode STM
Skip to main content Learn about arXiv becoming an independent nonprofit. We gratefully acknowledge support from the Simons Foundation, member institutions, and all contributors. > cond-mat > arXiv:2605.27250 Help | Advanced Search All fields Search GO quick links Login Condensed Matter > Materials Science arXiv:2605.27250 (cond-mat) [Submitted on 26 May 2026] Abstract:The ability to build atomically precise structures on surfaces with complete control over both atomic placement and chemical bonding remains a central challenge in nanoscale fabrication. Here, we demonstrate simultaneous spatial and chemical control over the mechanosynthetic fabrication of carbon structures. Using inverted-mode STM, C$_2$ units are donated from surface-deposited molecules to pre-patterned reactive sites on a hydrogen-passivated Si(100) surface. We demonstrate single-site C$_2$ donation, spatially patterned multi-site C$_2$ donation, and the stepwise assembly of polyyne structures through successive C-C bond formation. Together, these results establish controlled mechanosynthetic donation as a foundational capability for programmable atomically precise fabrication. Subjects: Materials Science (cond-mat.mtrl-sci) Cite as: Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite Submission history From: Megan Cowie [view email] [v1]
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The research addresses the fundamental challenge in nanoscale fabrication, which is achieving atomically precise structures on surfaces while maintaining complete control over both atomic placement and chemical bonding. The work presented demonstrates a method for simultaneously controlling the spatial and chemical aspects of mechanosynthetic carbon structure formation. This is achieved by utilizing inverted-mode scanning tunneling microscopy to guide the process. The methodology involves donating $\text{C}_2$ units from surface-deposited molecules to specifically pre-patterned reactive sites located on a hydrogen-passivated silicon $\text{Si}(100)$ surface. The study successfully demonstrated various levels of control over this donation process, including the controlled donation of $\text{C}_2$ units at a single site, the spatial patterning of multi-site $\text{C}_2$ donation, and the stepwise assembly of complex polyyne structures through sequential carbon-carbon bond formation. Collectively, these findings establish controlled mechanosynthetic donation as a foundational capability applicable for programmable atomically precise fabrication of carbon structures. |