Fig. 2
From: Surface-based molecular self-assembly: Langmuir-Blodgett films of amphiphilic Ln(III) complexes
Schematic showing the three methods to prepare Ln(III) amphiphiles. a In situ formation—a free ligand is applied to the surface of a Ln(III) containing sub-phase. As the barriers are compressed the ligands coordinate to the Ln(III) in the sub-phase and form a complex. b Pre-formed complexes—an amphiphilic ligand is first complexed with Ln(III) and then the resulting amphiphilic complex is applied to the surface of the LB trough. c Ln(III) complexes with amphiphilic counter ions—in these systems the counter ion (anion or cation) has amphiphilic character and the ion-pair formed is applied to the surface of the LB trough