Interchain interactions mediated by Br adsorbates in arrays of metal-organic hybrid chains on Ag(111)

Interchain interactions in arrays of metal-organic hybrid chains were studied using scanning tunneling microscopy and ab initio calculations. The array of hybrid chains having a Ag-anthryl biradical were self-assembled by catalytic scission of Br-C bonds in 9,10-dibromoanthracene on Ag(111). An atomic model for the observed chain structures was proposed. Ag atoms in chains were alternatingly located at hollow sites, making slightly zigzaging structures. Between the hybrid chains, Br atoms located at hollow sites to form Br•••H intermolecular bonds. Anthryl biradicals had two different apparent heights; this was explained by considering Br•••H intermolecular bonds and intrachain steric repulsion. When a hybrid chain was laterally moved by manipulation techniques, Br adsorbates moved together with the chain, implying that they are stabilized by Br•••H intermolecular bonds.