A versatile platform for graphene nanoribbon synthesis, electronic decoupling, and spin polarized measurements

Abstract: The on-surface synthesis of nano-graphenes has led the charge in prototyping structures with perspectives beyond silicon-based technology. Following reports of open-shell systems in graphene-nanoribbons (GNR), a flurry of research activities is directed at investigating their magnetic properties with a keen eye for spintronic applications. Although the synthesis of nano-graphenes is usually straightforward on gold, it is difficult to use it for electronic decoupling and spin-polarized measurements. Using a binary alloy Cu3Au(111), we show how to combine the efficient gold-like nano-graphene formation with spin polarization and electronic decoupling known from copper. We prepare copper oxide layers, demonstrate thermally and tip-assisted synthesis of GNR and grow thermally stable magnetic Co islands. We functionalize the tip of a scanning tunneling microscope with carbon-monoxide, nickelocene, or attach Co clusters for high-resolution imaging, magnetic sensing, or spin-polarized measurements. This versatile platform will be a valuable tool in the advanced study of magnetic nano-graphenes.