Chemical coordination induced fullerene dimers on hot Pt(111)

The fullerene family is known for its unique properties, facilitating the formation of large, lubricated nano‐onions and the fragmentation into small carbon clusters through various processes. In this study, we explore the thermal evolution of C60 islands in Pt(111), focusing on the segregation of C60 islands, the formation of fullerene dimers, and the subsequent development of large graphene sheets. Using non‐contact atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy, we observed that after annealing at 500 K, the C60 islands showed minimal change compared to their deposition at room temperature. However, at 800 K, pairs of separated C60 dimers appeared which, due to their low mobility, have the potential to transform into graphene quantum dots (GQDs). Further annealing at 900K controlled and refined the quality and dimensions of the graphene patches. This process not only provides an effective method for producing high‐quality graphene, but also permits to preserve isolated C60 dimers on the Pt(111) surface, offering valuable insights for advanced synthesis and lubrication applications.