Studies of Self-Organization of Semi-Fluorinated Alkanes on Different Substrates with DriveAFM

Semifluorinated alkanes: F(CF2)n(CH2)mH 

This application note investigates the self-assembly of semi-fluorinated alkanes F(CF2)n(CH2)mH on Silicon, HOPG, and MoS2 substrates using DriveAFM. 

These molecules, consisting of -CF2- and -CH2- groups with -CF3 and -CH3 terminals, form distinct domains due to the incompatibility of their subunits. The study explores the polymorphism of these self-assemblies influenced by solvent, substrate, deposition, and temperature. Various morphologies like toroids and ribbons were observed, with their formation and orientation impacted by the substrate and molecular structure. The AFM images demonstrate the diverse nanoscale structures of these semi-fluorinated alkanes, highlighting the complex interplay between the different molecular segments and the substrates.

 
DOWNLOAD NOW

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the Self-Assembly of Semi-Fluorinated Alkanes: Learn about the molecular composition of semi-fluorinated alkanes and their self-organization on various substrates.

  2. Explore the Influence of Substrate on Molecular Arrangement: Gain insights into how different substrates (Silicon, HOPG, MoS2) affect the morphology of semi-fluorinated alkane assemblies.

  3. Analyze Diverse Morphologies with DriveAFM: Develop skills in using DriveAFM to visualize and interpret the complex structures like toroids and ribbons formed by semi-fluorinated alkanes.

  4. Study the Impact of Molecular Structure on Self-Assembly: Understand how the molecular structure of semi-fluorinated alkanes influences their self-assembly and resulting superstructures.

  5. Investigate the Role of Environmental Factors: Learn about the effects of solvent, deposition methods, and temperature on the polymorphism of semi-fluorinated alkane assemblies.

  6. Apply Advanced AFM Techniques in Nanoscale Visualization: Recognize the application of dynamic mode AFM and other techniques like WaveMode and scanning tunneling microscopy in studying the molecular arrangement of semi-fluorinated alkanes.

DriveAFM-black-1

DriveAFM

The flagship AFM by Nanosurf that leaves nothing to be desired:

  • Fast
  • Intuitive
  • Performance without compromise

FlexAFM-black

FlexAFM 

The most flexibly configurable AFM for materials and life science research:

  • Our mid-range allround instrument
  • One of the most established AFMs available
  • Built-in upgrade path to DriveAFM

CoreAFM-1_maxQuality-1

CoreAFM

AFM for multi-user settings and sophisticated education:

  • Allround AFM with a competitive price tag
  • 33 modes and functions out of the box
  • Easiest AFM to handle with confidence