Nano-structured molecular surfaces: advances in investigation and patterning tools

This feature article is aimed to showcase advanced soft and radiationless nanotools for themorphological characterization and for the preparation/modification of molecular surfaces, namelysolid supported ultrathin films not exceeding 1–2 molecular layers. As to the characterization, thedevelopment of dynamic scanning force microscopy in attractive regime is presented as an importantprogress at least as far as it concerns imaging of nanoscale features of molecular surfaces with minimalprobe–sample physical interaction. To date, this tool has been applied only by a few groups in spiteof its larger resolution and image quality than the conventional scanning probe methods. As to thepreparation/modification, the realization of ultrathin nanoscale patterns is reviewed by highlighting atfirst some recent approaches in the field of molecular self-assembly on solid substrates including thepossibility to induce order under both equilibrium and non-equilibrium conditions. Secondly, the areaof nanoscale man-made fabrication is featured by choosing some of those techniques of urgent need(high resolution, low cost, potentially of simple use) like scanning probe lithographies andnanodispensing tools.