Structure of Graphene on the Ni(110) Surface

The structure of graphene on Ni(110) was studied using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and low-energy electron diffraction spectroscopy. STM images show a Moire structure, depending on the orientation of the domains making up the graphene layer. A simple model has been proposed which permits prediction of the Moire structure and interpretation of STM images based on calculation of the distances between the nearest neighbor carbon and nickel atoms. Our theoretical calculation suggests that the final orientation of graphene domains forming in the course of synthesis is defined by the angle of rotation of small clusters in the initial stages of growth.