Tetris in monolayers: patterned self-assembly using side chain shape

The kinked'' shapes of conjugated alkadiynes constrain chain packing in monolayers on HOPG. Centrally located diyne units permit assembly of 1,5-bis(alkadiyne) anthracene monolayers. Off-center diynes inhibit self-assembly. Shape matched pairs of off-center diyne chains direct self-assembly of compositionally patterned, two component monolayers.