  In the present work, the formation of silver and copper nanostructures on
highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) modified with self-assembled gold
nanoparticles (Au NPs) is demonstrated. Surface patterning with nanometer
resolution was achieved. Different methods such as field emission scanning
electron microscopy (FEGSEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and X-ray
photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to illustrate a selective deposition
of silver and copper on Au NPs. The mechanism of silver and copper ions
reduction on Au NP with $n$-dodecanethiol coating is discussed.
