Regulating a two-dimensional metallo-supramolecular self-assembly of multiple outputs

On a Au(111) surface, a mixture of two types of molecular ligands assembles with Cu generating two homogeneous and one heterogeneous metallo-supramolecular structures owing to same pyridyl-Cu-pyridyl coordination. The proportion of the three phases in the output structures is regulated by adjusting the ratio of the two components in the input molecular mixture. As the ratio approaches the stoichiometric value of the heterogeneous structure, one of the ligands is 100% incorporated in the heterogeneous phase, manifesting a unique amplification behaviour in this multiple output self-assembly.