One-dimensional molecular chains with dispersive electronic states

Abstract

One-dimensional molecular chains comprising self-assembled double-layer sexithiophene (6T) molecules on Ag(111) are studied with low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. Despite the molecular chains being stabilized by van der Waals interactions and isolated from the metal substrate, dispersive electronic states are observed. The measurements of differential conductance and dI/dV maps along the chains reveal the end states forming at the ends of chains. Density functional theory calculations indicate the splitting and hybridization of unoccupied π molecular orbitais between neighboring layers of 6T molecules resulting in the formation of delocalized one-dimensional electronic states. © 2009 American Chemical Society.