Graphene-protected iron layer on Ni(111)

Here we report the photoemission studies of intercalation process of Fe underneath graphene layer on Ni(111). The process of intercalation was monitored via XPS of corresponding core levels and UPS of the graphene-derived $\pi$ states in the valence band. $\mathit{\text{fcc}}$-Fe films with thickness of 2-5 monolayers at the interface between graphene and Ni(111) form epitaxial magnetic layer passivated from the reactive environment, like for example oxygen gas.