Carbon Nanomembranes (CNMs) are two-dimensional materials made by cross-linking (interconnecting) the molecules of a Self Assembled Monolayer (SAM). CNMs can be chemically tailored on one or both...Show moreCarbon Nanomembranes (CNMs) are two-dimensional materials made by cross-linking (interconnecting) the molecules of a Self Assembled Monolayer (SAM). CNMs can be chemically tailored on one or both sides leading to a variety of possible properties (e.g. mechanical, conductive, chemical, etc.). Once these properties are understood and controlled, CNMs might be a candidate for (among other things) functional devices based on molecules. In this thesis, it is described how to create laterally patterned CNMs by cross-linking aromatic based self assembled monolayers. Cross-linking is done by in situ low-energy electron irradiation with low energy electron microscopy (LEEM). This novel method allows for new types of experiments giving a brand new perspective. We show that a new structure (possibly CNM) was created after electron irradiation of SAM followed by annealing, furthermore, we have learned that our SAMs show an electron irradiation induced effect. This effect is most accurately described as a front shaped like the irradiated area, slowly shrinking in size until its disappearance. This effect was observed right after irradiation if certain conditions on the illumination time and electron energy were met. This phenomenon was imaged live and down to micrometer scale. These measurements have brought us to the conclusion that this front is not shrinking with a constant speed but is accelerating just before its disappearance. Furthermore, our measurements hint for a connection between the parameters illumination time & electron energy and the visibility and speed of a front.Show less
