Experiments and simulations for artificial electronic lattices

Electronic devices are becoming smaller and more precise. The smallest parts are now only a few nanometers wide. At this scale, the largest losses occur due to scattering resistance of electrons with the host material. By changing the crystal lattice in which the electrons travel, this resistance can be reduced. To achieve this we perform fundamental research on the behavior of electrons in their specific atomic surroundings. We use a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) to see, move and measure individual atoms and molecules. We place molecules and atoms in intricate patterns forming engineered lattices, and measure the electronic properties. By playing with the spacing and position of molecules on a copper surface, we can force the electrons to be at higher or lower energies. This thesis discusses multiple aspects all based on the concepts described above. We build a honeycomb lattice, similar to the well-known graphene lattice, but showing separated s and p orbital bands. We study the effect of a magnetic field on artificial atoms. Small circles and squares are built and measured to determine the effect of orbital momentum. New substrates, such as InAs, are investigated for improving the energy resolution in artificial lattices. In the last chapter we develop an automated program to automatically improve the quality of the scanning tip in the STM.