2D layer of phosphorus pentamers shows semicon- ductor properties on silver surface Phosphorus is an exciting element: It is essential for the survival of organisms and promises numerous electronic applications. With this in mind, researchers at the Uni- versity of Basel have synthesized two-dimensional layers containing rings of 昀椀ve phosphorus atoms (phosphorus pentamers (cyclo-P5)) on a silver surface. For the 昀椀rst time, they have been ableto investigate their electronic properties using combined atomic force and scanning tunneling spectroscopy. They found that the atomic phos- phorus pentamer layer retains its semiconductor prop- erties and forms a special electronic interface where the layer joins the silver surface (p-type semiconductor-metal When two-dimensional layers containing rings of 昀椀ve phosphorus atoms Schottky junction). (phosphorus pentamers) are formed on a sliver surface by self-assembly, the phosphorus layer retains its semiconductor properties and a special SNI post: interface (a p-type semiconductor-metal Schottky junction) forms at the https://nanoscience.unibas.ch/en/news/details/2d-schicht-aus-phosphor-pentam- interface with the silver surface. (Image: R. Pawlak, Department of Phys- eren-auch-auf-metall-mit-halbleitereigenschaften/ ics, University of Basel) Original publication: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50862-4 Full house at the NanoTec Apéro The SNI nano community and interested researchers from industry and research institutions in Northwestern Switzerland were invited to the NanoTec Apéro in Novem- ber. The team from Park Innovaare hosted the event this year. After an interesting guided tour at the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI, all those present were given an insight into applied research as part of the Nano-Argovia program and had the opportunity to make new contacts and exchange ideas for projects. Impresssions: https://youtube.com/shorts/tDm5riP0UFo More than 70 participants gathered information at the NanoTec Apéro and used the opportunity to expand their network. Participation in Schnupper Schools at the University of Basel The Summer and Winter Schnupper Schools organized by the University of Basel also appeal to young people. The SNI team took part and gave interested students an insight into the nanosciences and provided information about the interdisciplinary nanosciences degree program. In addition, the participants are able to experience where “nano” plays a role by means of some experiments. Impressions: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Jx_y-pC6TK0 There is a lot to try out at the Summer and Winter Schnupper Schools. SNI INSight December 2024 29