Controlled formation and structural transformation of porous 2D lattices from TBPS on surface

The formation of mixed-phase porous structures by organic molecules on surfaces, along with the transition between different porous configurations, represents a key strategy for developing graphene-based materials with tunable electronic properties. On Cu(1 1 1), tetrakis(4-bromophenyl)silane (TBPS) self-assembles into a honeycomb lattice, which then transforms into irregular polymers upon thermal treatment. On Ag(1 0 0), TBPS forms a variety of porous structures, including nonhexagonal motifs, which evolve into hexagonal configurations upon heating. This controlled transformation between nonhexagonal and hexagonal assemblies, driven by molecule-substrate interactions, provides new insights into the design of functional 2D monolayers and molecular devices.