Fig. 2.
Hierarchic metallosupramolecular network from Ce-directed assembly of NC–Ph3–CN linkers on Ag(111), for a 4:1 (linker/Ce) stoichiometric ratio. (A and B) STM images revealing a dodecameric building unit of a hierarchic hexagonal supramolecular network based on a simultaneous expression of CN–Ce fivefold coordination and lateral CN···phenyl interactions. The black star marks high-symmetry substrate directions. Data were obtained at 6 K. Image size: (A) 232 Å × 232 Å2; (B) 116 × 116 Å2. Scanning parameters: Vbias = −0.1 V, I = 0.1 nA. (C and D) Atomistic model of the network: linkers involved in a single coordination are depicted in green, and those connecting two Ce centers are in pink. The yellow transparent lobes highlight the dodecamer repeat unit with the three Ce centers involved spanning a black triangle. The red circles are Ce centers. The hierarchic superlattice is depicted in violet.