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Nanoscale Observation of Alkane Delayering

M. Bai·K. Knorr·M. J. Simpson·S. Trogisch·H. Taub·S. N. Ehrlich·H. Mo·U. G. Volkmann·F. Y. Hansen
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Abstract

Noncontact Atomic Force Microscopy and synchrotron x-ray scattering measurements on dotriacontane (n-C32H66 or C32) films adsorbed on SiO2-coated Si(100) wafers reveal a narrow temperature range near the bulk C32 melting point Tb in which a monolayer phase of C32 molecules oriented perpendicular to surface is stable. This monolayer phase undergoes a delayering transition to a three-dimensional (3D) fluid phase on heating to just above Tb and to a solid 3D phase on cooling below Tb. An equilibrium phase diagram provides a useful framework for interpreting the unusual spreading and receding of the monolayer observed in transitions to and from the respective 3D phases.

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M. Bai, K. Knorr, M. J. Simpson, S. Trogisch, H. Taub, S. N. Ehrlich, H. Mo, U. G. Volkmann, F. Y. Hansen. 2006-11-18. Nanoscale Observation of Alkane Delayering. https://arxiv.org/abs/cond-mat/0611497

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