Atomic-Scale Structure of Single-Layer ${\mathrm{MoS}}_2$ Nanoclusters

We have studied using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) the atomic-scale realm of molybdenum disulfide ( ${\mathrm{MoS}}_2$) nanoclusters, which are of interest as a model system in hydrodesulfurization catalysis. The STM gives the first real space images of the shape and edge structure of single-layer ${\mathrm{MoS}}_2$ nanoparticles synthesized on Au(111), and establishes a new picture of the active edge sites of the nanoclusters. The results demonstrate a way to get detailed atomic-scale information on catalysts in general.