Local work-function manipulation by external optical stimulation

Strongly differing static dipole moments of the trans and cis isomers of photochromic azobenzene allow for optical switching the work function of azobenzene-functionalized self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). We apply these properties in a fundamental experiment to manipulate the area size of the switc...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inarXiv.org
Main Authors Böhnke, Jan, Andres, Beatrice, Boie, Larissa, Richter, Angela, Gahl, Cornelius, Weinelt, Martin, Bronsch, Wibke
Format Paper
LanguageEnglish
Published Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 23.02.2024
Subjects
Acoustic microscopes
Azo compounds
Dipole moments
Isomerization
Optical switching
Photoelectric emission
Scanning acoustic microscopy
Self-assembled monolayers
Self-assembly
Ultraviolet lasers
Work functions
Online AccessGet full text

Cover

More Information
Summary:Strongly differing static dipole moments of the trans and cis isomers of photochromic azobenzene allow for optical switching the work function of azobenzene-functionalized self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). We apply these properties in a fundamental experiment to manipulate the area size of the switched SAM. Azobenzene molecules were excited by ultraviolet laser illumination and the transient isomerization profile of the SAM was spatially resolved recording photoemission electron microscopy (PEEM) images. Thereby we demonstrate the spatial tuning of the SAM work-function and discuss the role of the laser spot-profile in generating sharp edges or gradual changes of the work function.
ISSN:2331-8422