Exploring the Geometry of Three-Atom-Thick Structures in Stretched Gold Contacts

Through electronic transport measurements on atomic gold contacts produced using Break-Junction (BJ) techniques, the existence of chains with one, two, and three atoms of thickness in these contacts when stretched has been demonstrated. To achieve this, BJ experiments have been conducted at both low and high temperatures, along with classical molecular dynamics simulations and first-principles calculations. Additionally, by using break-junction experiments and a calibration method, we have been able to determine how sharp our electrodes can be, even at room temperature. The experimental comparison at different temperatures has allowed us to establish a new method for calibrating distances in BJ techniques, providing a rapid and robust approach.