Two-dimensional networks via quasi one-dimensional arrangements of gold clusters

A new approach to one-dimensionally organize the quantum dot Au-55(PPh3)(12)Cl-6 is described by using poly(vinyl-pyrrolidone) (PVP) molecules as templates. AFM investigations indicate chemisorption of the nanoclusters at the surface of the polymers. Using Langmuir-Blodgett techniques, networks of cluster-loaded polymer chains on mica or silicon are generated. The pattern of the networks can be designed from widely distributed but often interconnecting filaments, up to almost densely packed structures, depending on the surface pressure. Those networks are rigid enough to be transferred from the water surface onto solid substrates without degradation, Bare PVP molecules do not give comparable networks under equivalent conditions, indicating that the nanoclusters act as junctions between the chains.