High quality nano-patterned thin films of the coordination compound {Fe(pyrazine)[Pt(CN)(4)]} deposited layer-by-layer

An optimised procedure was developed for the layer-by-layer deposition of the Hofmann clathrate-like coordination compound {Fe(pyrazine)[Pt(CN)(4)]} either as continuous or as nano-patterned thin films. Characterization of the thickness and topography of the thin films by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectroscopy, which also yields the layer's refractive index and losses, are reported. We found that the films are of good optical quality and the results of both AFM and SPR experiments are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions of the films thicknesses.