Single-layer ZnS supported on Au(111): A combined XPS, LEED, STM and DFT study

Single-layer of ZnS, consisting of one atomic layer of ZnS(111) plane, has been grown on Au(111) and characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), low energy electron diffraction (LEED) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). While the LEED measurement indicates a coincidence structure of ZnS-(3x3)/Au(111)-(4x4), high resolution STM images reveal hexagonal unit cells of 6.7x6.7 angstrom(2) and 11.6x 11.6 angstrom(2), corresponding to-a and 3 times the unit cell of the ideal zincblende ZnS-(1x1), respectively, depending on the tunneling conditions. Calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) indicate a significantly reconstructed non-planar structure of ZnS single-layer on Au(111) with 2/3 of the S anions being located nearly in the plane of the Zn cations and the rest 1/3 of the S anions protruding above the Zn plane. The calculated STM image shows similar characteristics to those of the experimental STM image. Additionally, the DFT calculations reveal the different bonding nature of the S anions in ZnS single-layer supported on Au(111).