Direct imaging of soft-hard interfaces enabled by graphene

Nano Lett. 2009 Sep;9(9):3365-9. doi: 10.1021/nl901664k.

Abstract

Direct imaging of surface molecules and the interfaces between soft and hard materials on functionalized nanoparticles is a great challenge using modern microscopy techniques. We show that graphene, a single atomic layer of sp(2)-bonded carbon atoms, can be employed as an ultrathin support film that enables direct imaging of molecular layers and interfaces in both conventional and atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy. An atomic-resolution imaging study of the capping layers and interfaces of citrate-stabilized gold nanoparticles is used to demonstrate this novel capability. Our findings reveal the unique potential of graphene as an ideal support film for atomic-resolution transmission electron microscopy of hard and soft nanomaterials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Materials Testing
  • Membranes, Artificial
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Particle Size
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Membranes, Artificial
  • Graphite