Anisotropic behavior of organic molecules on prepatterned surfaces

Anomalous approach to thermodynamic equilibrium: Structure formation of molecules after vapor deposition

We describe experiments and computer simulations of molecular deposition on a substrate in which the molecules (substituted adenine derivatives) self-assemble into ordered structures. The resulting structures depend strongly on the deposition rate (flux). In particular, there are two competing surface morphologies (α and β), which differ by their topology (interdigitated vs lamellar structure). Experimentally, the α phase dominates at both low and high flux, with the β phase being most important in the intermediate regime. A similar nonmonotonic behavior is observed on varying the substrate temperature. To understand these effects from a theoretical perspective, a lattice model is devised which reproduces qualitatively the topological features of both phases. Via extensive Monte Carlo studies we can, on the one hand, reproduce the experimental results and, on the other hand, obtain a microscopic understanding of the mechanisms behind this anomalous behavior. The results are discussed in terms of an interplay between kinetic trapping and temporal exploration of configuration space.

Pattern formation of anisotropic molecules on surfaces under non-equilibrium conditions as described by a minimum model

The self-organization of lipophilic chain molecules on surfaces in vacuum deposition experiments has been recently studied by Monte Carlo simulations of a coarse grained microscopic model system. Surprisingly, the final potential energy depends in a non-monotonous way on the chosen flux and the surface temperature. Here we introduce a schematic model which contains the relevant physical ingredients of the microscopic model and which elucidates the origin of this anomalous non-equilibrium effect. Intra-cluster effects, reflecting the chain arrangement within one cluster, and inter-cluster effects, based on the distribution of chains among the different formed clusters, are taken into account. This schematic model is solved numerically as well as via analytical means. From the analytical solutions, it is possible to understand quantitatively for which interaction parameters the observed anomalies can indeed be observed. The generality of the observed phenomena is stressed. It is related to the concept of kinetic trapping, which often occurs during self-assembly.