Vapor phase molecular epitaxy via self-assembly reactions

In this paper we introduce the Molecular Layer Epitaxy (MLE) method for epitaxial growth of covalently-linked organic multilayered structures. This method combines vapor phase and solution based multilayers assembly techniques in a unified concept. The MLE approach was proved fruitful by applying Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) techniques. The resulting MLE-derived low-dimensional multilayered structures exhibited high structural regularity and thermal stability. The above vapor phase assembly technique led to the formation of organic multiple quantum wells (OMQW) structures, where the solid-state electronic properties are governed by finite size effects. The various emitting species in the solid state were studied by modeling intermolecular interactions in solution. The strong tendency for π-aggregation in model compounds is evident in their crystal structure as well. This driving force for in-plane stacking also enhances the mobilities of electrons with-in this layer leading to unique electroluminescent properties The suggested MLE approach for multilayered thin film deposition should enable the future advance in areas of material science connected with nano-technologies, and better understanding of fundamental issues in quantum mechanic and solid state physics.