Coupling Between Br‐Hexahelicene Molecules Through Br···H Bonds: A Theoretical Study

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Authors: Youssef Smayou, Nadia El Hasnaoui, Youness Benjalal
Cited by: 1
References: 48

Abstract

The control of molecular self‐assembly on surfaces via specific noncovalent interactions is a key challenge in nanoscience. Using density functional theory (DFT) at the rSCAN‐3c level, we investigate the intermolecular forces within dimers of Br‐Hexahelicene (Br[6]H) adsorbed on Au(111). Through wavefunction analysis using Interaction Region Indicator (IRI), electrostatic potential (ESP), and Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM), we characterize the nature of the halogen contacts. Our results show that the stabilization of the homo‐chiral dimers is driven by a distinct CBr···HC halogen–hydrogen bond. Conversely, the Br···Br contact is identified as a weak, nondirectional van der Waals interaction with negligible bonding character. This work clarifies the hierarchy of interactions in these surface‐confined systems and highlights the CBr···HC bond as a specific design element for guided supramolecular assembly.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Surface Chemistry and Catalysis Synthesis and Properties of Aromatic Compounds Graphene research and applications

Publication details

Journal / source
ChemPhysChem
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
27
Issue
7
Pages
e202500840–e202500840
Publication date
14 April 2026
Language
EN