1
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Wu A, Fan Y, Tao C, Chen X, Dappe YJ, Du J, Zhang Q. Molecular Diodes Induced by a Schottky Barrier with a Gold-Silicon Doped Electrode. J Phys Chem Lett 2024; 15:7011-7019. [PMID: 38949616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.4c01351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
To create complementary metal oxide semiconductor compatible molecular devices, more insights into the electrode property regarding its metal/semiconductor doping level and creating a functional molecular device are required. In this work, we constructed an EGaIn/alkanethiol/Au-Si molecular diode (with a rectification ratio R of 50.70) induced by Schottky barriers within a gold-silicon doped electrode instead of the functional property of molecules. The relationship between the rectification ratio and the number of methylene units in alkanethiol was analyzed, revealing a gradual increase in the ratio from 3.33 for C6H14S to 50.70 for C16H34S. The rectification ratio of the junction is well modulated by the temperature due to the change in the Schottky barrier. Such a mechanism is explained by the energy band diagrams of the surface space charge region and a combination of density functional theory and Keldysh-Green formalism calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Yidan Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Changyuan Tao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Xiaoping Chen
- College of Chemistry and Environment, Minnan Normal University, Zhangzhou 363000, China
| | - Yannick J Dappe
- SPEC, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, CEA Saclay, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex 91191, France
| | - Jun Du
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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2
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Duan S, Tian G, Luo Y. Theoretical and computational methods for tip- and surface-enhanced Raman scattering. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:5083-5117. [PMID: 38596836 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01070h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy is a versatile tool for acquiring molecular structure information. The incorporation of plasmonic fields has significantly enhanced the sensitivity and resolution of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS). The strong spatial confinement effect of plasmonic fields has challenged the conventional Raman theory, in which a plane wave approximation for the light has been adopted. In this review, we comprehensively survey the progress of a generalized theory for SERS and TERS in the framework of effective field Hamiltonian (EFH). With this approach, all characteristics of localized plasmonic fields can be well taken into account. By employing EFH, quantitative simulations at the first-principles level for state-of-the-art experimental observations have been achieved, revealing the underlying intrinsic physics in the measurements. The predictive power of EFH is demonstrated by several new phenomena generated from the intrinsic spatial, momentum, time, and energy structures of the localized plasmonic field. The corresponding experimental verifications are also carried out briefly. A comprehensive computational package for modeling of SERS and TERS at the first-principles level is introduced. Finally, we provide an outlook on the future developments of theory and experiments for SERS and TERS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Duan
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, MOE Key Laboratory of Computational Physical Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Guangjun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science & Technology and Key Laboratory for Microstructural Material Physics of Hebei Province, School of Science, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Science at the Microscale and Synergetic Innovation Center of Quantum Information & Quantum Physics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China.
- Hefei National Laboratory, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230088, China
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3
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Zhang X, Li Z, Ji S, Xu W, Chen L, Xiao Z, Liu J, Hong W. Plasmon-Molecule Interactions in Single-Molecule Junctions. Chempluschem 2024; 89:e202300556. [PMID: 38050755 DOI: 10.1002/cplu.202300556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Single-molecule optoelectronics offers opportunities for advancing integrated photonics and electronics, which also serves as a tool to elucidate the underlying mechanism of light-matter interaction. Plasmonics, which plays pivotal role in the interaction of photons and matter, have became an emerging area. A comprehensive understanding of the plasmonic excitation and modulation mechanisms within single-molecule junctions (SMJs) lays the foundation for optoelectronic devices. Consequently, this review primarily concentrates on illuminating the fundamental principles of plasmonics within SMJs, delving into their research methods and modulation factors of plasmon-exciton. Moreover, we underscore the interaction phenomena within SMJs, including the enhancement of molecular fluorescence by plasmonics, Fano resonance and Rabi splitting caused by the interaction of plasmon-exciton. Finally, by emphasizing the potential applications of plasmonics within SMJs, such as their roles in optical tweezers, single-photon sources, super-resolution imaging, and chemical reactions, we elucidate the future prospects and current challenges in this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Zhengyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Shurui Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Wei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Lijue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Zongyuan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Junyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
| | - Wenjing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering & Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361005, China
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4
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Wang M, Zhang GP. Tuning the polarity of charge carriers in N-heterocyclic carbene-based single-molecule junctions via atomic manipulation. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:9051-9059. [PMID: 38441317 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp04677j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Tuning the polarity of charge carriers at a single-molecular level is essential for designing complementary logic circuits in the field of molecular electronics. Herein, the transport properties of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC)-linked single-molecule junctions are investigated using the ab initio quantum transport approach. The results reveal that the hydrogen atoms in NHCs function as a switch for regulating the polarity of charge carriers. Dehydrogenation changes the chemical nature of NHC anchors, thereby rendering holes as the major charge carriers rather than electrons. Essentially, dehydrogenation changes the anchoring group from electron-rich to electron-deficient. The electrons transferred to molecules from the electrodes raise the molecular level closer to the Fermi level, thus resulting in charge carrier polarity conversion. This conversion is influenced by the position and number of hydrogen atoms in the NHC anchors. To efficiently and decisively alter charge carrier polarity via atomic manipulation, a methyl substitution approach is developed and verified. These results confirm that atomic manipulation is a significant method for modulating the polarity of charge carriers in NHC-based single-molecule devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minglang Wang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Image Processing & Shandong Provincial Engineering and Technical Center of Light Manipulations, School of Physics and Electronics, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China.
| | - Guang-Ping Zhang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Medical Physics and Image Processing & Shandong Provincial Engineering and Technical Center of Light Manipulations, School of Physics and Electronics, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250358, China.
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5
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Sommer M, Laible F, Braun K, Goschurny T, Meixner AJ, Fleischer M. Nano-antennas with decoupled transparent leads for optoelectronic studies. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 35:215302. [PMID: 38456537 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad2b4b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Performing electrical measurements on single plasmonic nanostructures presents a challenging task due to the limitations in contacting the structure without disturbing its optical properties. In this work, we show two ways to overcome this problem by fabricating bow-tie nano-antennas with indium tin oxide leads. Indium tin oxide is transparent in the visible range and electrically conducting, but non-conducting at optical frequencies. The structures are prepared by electron beam lithography. Further definition, such as introducing small gaps, is achieved by focused helium ion beam milling. Dark-field reflection spectroscopy characterization of the dimer antennas shows typical unperturbed plasmonic spectra with multiple resonance peaks from mode hybridization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Sommer
- Institute for Applied Physics and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Laible
- Institute for Applied Physics and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kai Braun
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Goschurny
- Institute for Applied Physics and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Alfred J Meixner
- Institute of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Monika Fleischer
- Institute for Applied Physics and Center LISA+, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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6
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Zhang W, Zhao Z, Tan M, Adijiang A, Zhong S, Xu X, Zhao T, Ramya E, Sun L, Zhao X, Fan Z, Xiang D. Regulating the orientation of a single coordinate bond by the synergistic action of mechanical forces and electric field. Chem Sci 2023; 14:11456-11465. [PMID: 37886107 PMCID: PMC10599463 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc03892k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular binding orientation with respect to the electrode plays a pivotal role in determining the performance of molecular devices. However, accomplishing in situ modulation of single-molecule binding orientation remains a great challenge due to the lack of suitable testing systems and characterization approaches. To this end, by employing a developed STM-BJ technique, we demonstrate that the conductance of pyridine-anchored molecular junctions decreases as the applied voltage increases, which is determined by the repeated formation of thousands of gold-molecule-gold dynamic break junctions. In contrast, the static fixed molecular junctions (the distance between two electrodes is fixed) with identical molecules exhibit a reverse tendency as the bias voltage increases. Supported by flicker noise measurements and theoretical calculations, we provide compelling evidence that the orientation of nitrogen-gold bonds (a universal coordinate bond) in the pyridine-anchored molecular junctions can be manipulated to align with the electric field by the synergistic action of the mechanical stretching force and the electric fields, whereas either stimulus alone cannot achieve the same effect. Our study provides a framework for characterizing and regulating the orientation of a single coordinate bond, offering an approach to control electron transport through single molecular junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Zhibin Zhao
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Min Tan
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Adila Adijiang
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Shurong Zhong
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Xiaona Xu
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Tianran Zhao
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Emusani Ramya
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Lu Sun
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Xueyan Zhao
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Zhiqiang Fan
- School of Physics and Electronic Science, Changsha University of Science and Technology Changsha 410114 China
| | - Dong Xiang
- Institute of Modern Optics, Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Smart Sensing Interdisciplinary Science Center, Nankai University Tianjin 300350 China
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7
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Li T, Bandari VK, Schmidt OG. Molecular Electronics: Creating and Bridging Molecular Junctions and Promoting Its Commercialization. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209088. [PMID: 36512432 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Molecular electronics is driven by the dream of expanding Moore's law to the molecular level for next-generation electronics through incorporating individual or ensemble molecules into electronic circuits. For nearly 50 years, numerous efforts have been made to explore the intrinsic properties of molecules and develop diverse fascinating molecular electronic devices with the desired functionalities. The flourishing of molecular electronics is inseparable from the development of various elegant methodologies for creating nanogap electrodes and bridging the nanogap with molecules. This review first focuses on the techniques for making lateral and vertical nanogap electrodes by breaking, narrowing, and fixed modes, and highlights their capabilities, applications, merits, and shortcomings. After summarizing the approaches of growing single molecules or molecular layers on the electrodes, the methods of constructing a complete molecular circuit are comprehensively grouped into three categories: 1) directly bridging one-molecule-electrode component with another electrode, 2) physically bridging two-molecule-electrode components, and 3) chemically bridging two-molecule-electrode components. Finally, the current state of molecular circuit integration and commercialization is discussed and perspectives are provided, hoping to encourage the community to accelerate the realization of fully scalable molecular electronics for a new era of integrated microsystems and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Li
- Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), Chemnitz University of Technology, 09126, Chemnitz, Germany
- Material Systems for Nanoelectronics, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09111, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Vineeth Kumar Bandari
- Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), Chemnitz University of Technology, 09126, Chemnitz, Germany
- Material Systems for Nanoelectronics, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09111, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Oliver G Schmidt
- Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), Chemnitz University of Technology, 09126, Chemnitz, Germany
- Material Systems for Nanoelectronics, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09111, Chemnitz, Germany
- Nanophysics, Dresden University of Technology, 01069, Dresden, Germany
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8
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Li C, Yan PJ, Chen Y, Yang R, Sun M. Spectral investigation on single molecular optoelectronics of ladder phenylenes. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2022; 278:121283. [PMID: 35537258 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.121283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Atomic chains and organic conjugated molecules are of great important research value in molecular optoelectronics, due to their special optoelectronic properties. The fully conjugated nature of ladder phenylenes (LPs) provide some unique properties that have potential applications in the fabrication of molecular electronics devices. Our results reveal optoelectronic properties apply density function theory and non-equilibrium green's function theory, including unit-dependent light absorption, Raman scattering, phonon energy band structure, the chemical potential dependent density of states, electrical conductivity, I-V curve, transmission spectrum, etc. Our research provides theoretical guidance for the regulation of light-harvesting regions based on LPs structures, and theoretical support for the design of nano-scale optoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Li
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Materials Genome Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Pen-Ji Yan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Key Laboratory of Hexi Corridor Resources Utilization of Gansu Universities, Hexi University, Zhangye 734000, PR China
| | - Yichuan Chen
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Materials Genome Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Rui Yang
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Materials Genome Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Mengtao Sun
- School of Mathematics and Physics, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Materials Genome Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
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9
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Zou Q, Chen X, Zhou Y, Jin X, Zhang Z, Qiu J, Wang R, Hong W, Su J, Qu DH, Tian H. Photoconductance from the Bent-to-Planar Photocycle between Ground and Excited States in Single-Molecule Junctions. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:10042-10052. [PMID: 35611861 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c03671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Single-molecule conductance measurements for 9,14-diphenyl-9,14-dihydrodibenzo[a,c]phenazine (DPAC) may offer unique insight into the bent-to-planar photocycle between the ground and excited states. Herein, we employ DPAC derivative DPAC-SMe as the molecular prototype to fabricate single-molecule junctions using the scanning tunneling microscope break junction technique and explore photoconductance dependence on the excited-state structural/electronic changes. We find up to ∼200% conductance enhancement of DPAC-SMe under continuous 340 nm light irradiation than that without irradiation, while photoconductance disappears in the case where structural evolution of the DPAC-SMe is halted through macrocyclization. The in situ conductance modulation as pulsed 340 nm light irradiation is monitored in the DPAC-SMe-based junctions alone, suggesting that the photoconductance of DPAC-SMe stems from photoinduced intramolecular planarization. Theoretical calculations reveal that the photoinduced structural evolution brings about a significant redistribution of the electron cloud density, which leads to the appearance of Fano resonance, resulting in enhanced conductance through the DPAC-SMe-fabricated junctions. This work provides evidence of bent-to-planar photocycle-induced conductance differences at the single-molecule level, offering a tailored approach for tuning the charge transport characteristics of organic photoelectronic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zou
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xuanying Chen
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Zhiyun Zhang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jin Qiu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Wenjing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Jianhua Su
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Da-Hui Qu
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - He Tian
- Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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10
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Xie X, Li P, Xu Y, Zhou L, Yan Y, Xie L, Jia C, Guo X. Single-Molecule Junction: A Reliable Platform for Monitoring Molecular Physical and Chemical Processes. ACS NANO 2022; 16:3476-3505. [PMID: 35179354 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c11433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring and manipulating the physical and chemical behavior of single molecules is an important development direction of molecular electronics that aids in understanding the molecular world at the single-molecule level. The electrical detection platform based on single-molecule junctions can monitor physical and chemical processes at the single-molecule level with a high temporal resolution, stability, and signal-to-noise ratio. Recently, the combination of single-molecule junctions with different multimodal control systems has been widely used to explore significant physical and chemical phenomena because of its powerful monitoring and control capabilities. In this review, we focus on the applications of single-molecule junctions in monitoring molecular physical and chemical processes. The methods developed for characterizing single-molecule charge transfer and spin characteristics as well as revealing the corresponding intrinsic mechanisms are introduced. Dynamic detection and regulation of single-molecule conformational isomerization, intermolecular interactions, and chemical reactions are also discussed in detail. In addition to these dynamic investigations, this review discusses the open challenges of single-molecule detection in the fields of physics and chemistry and proposes some potential applications in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmiao Xie
- Center for Molecular Systems and Organic Devices (CMSOD), Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Peihui Li
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Yanxia Xu
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Li Zhou
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Yong Yan
- Center for Molecular Systems and Organic Devices (CMSOD), Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Linghai Xie
- Center for Molecular Systems and Organic Devices (CMSOD), Key Laboratory for Organic Electronics and Information Displays and Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Chuancheng Jia
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, PR China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, National Biomedical Imaging Center, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100871, PR China
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Center of Single-Molecule Sciences, Institute of Modern Optics, Frontiers Science Center for New Organic Matter, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, 38 Tongyan Road, Jinnan District, Tianjin 300350, PR China
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, National Biomedical Imaging Center, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, 292 Chengfu Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100871, PR China
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11
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Bennett TLR, Wilkinson LA, Lok JMA, O’Toole RCP, Long NJ. Synthesis, Electrochemistry, and Optical Properties of Highly Conjugated Alkynyl-Ferrocenes and -Biferrocenes. Organometallics 2021. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.organomet.1c00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Troy L. R. Bennett
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, MSRH, White City Campus, London W12 0BZ, U.K
| | - Luke A. Wilkinson
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, U.K
| | - Jasmine M. A. Lok
- Department of Chemistry, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, U.K
| | | | - Nicholas J. Long
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, MSRH, White City Campus, London W12 0BZ, U.K
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12
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Chen Y, Wang HC, Tang Y, Zhou Y, Huang L, Cao J, Tang C, Zhang M, Shi J, Liu J, Ren X, Xu YX, Hong W. Modulation of charge transport through single-molecule bilactam junctions by tuning hydrogen bonds. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:1935-1938. [PMID: 33498077 DOI: 10.1039/d0cc07423c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bilactam derivatives with different side groups were synthesized and the twisting angle tuning effect induced by the intramolecular hydrogen bond on the charge transport through their single-molecule junctions was investigated. Molecules with strong intramolecular hydrogen bonds exhibited twice higher conductance because of the reduced dihedral twisting, which was reversible with the addition of hydrogen bond destroying solvent. Our findings reveal that the presence of intramolecular hydrogen bonds promotes the planarization of the molecular structure without additional transmission channels, offering a new strategy for controlling molecular switches via tuning the molecular twisting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaorong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Hua-Chun Wang
- College of Polymer Science & Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Yongxiang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Longfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Jian Cao
- College of Polymer Science & Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Chun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Manxi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Jia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Junyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Xiancheng Ren
- College of Polymer Science & Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Yun-Xiang Xu
- College of Polymer Science & Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Wenjing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, iChEM, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China. and Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
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13
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Chen Y, Huang L, Chen H, Chen Z, Zhang H, Xiao Z, Hong W. Towards Responsive
Single‐Molecule
Device. CHINESE J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.202000420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yaorong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Longfeng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Hang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Zhixin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Hewei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Zongyuan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Wenjing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
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14
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15
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Shen P, Huang M, Qian J, Li J, Ding S, Zhou X, Xu B, Zhao Z, Tang BZ. Achieving Efficient Multichannel Conductance in Through‐Space Conjugated Single‐Molecule Parallel Circuits. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202000061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pingchuan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Miaoling Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis MaterialsInstitute of Physical ChemistryZhejiang Normal University Jinhua Zhejiang 321004 China
| | - Jingyu Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and MaterialsJilin University 2699 Qianjin Street Changchun 130012 China
| | - Jinshi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Siyang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Xiao‐Shun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis MaterialsInstitute of Physical ChemistryZhejiang Normal University Jinhua Zhejiang 321004 China
| | - Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and MaterialsJilin University 2699 Qianjin Street Changchun 130012 China
| | - Zujin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
- Department of ChemistryThe Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
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16
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Shen P, Huang M, Qian J, Li J, Ding S, Zhou X, Xu B, Zhao Z, Tang BZ. Achieving Efficient Multichannel Conductance in Through‐Space Conjugated Single‐Molecule Parallel Circuits. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:4581-4588. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202000061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pingchuan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Miaoling Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis MaterialsInstitute of Physical ChemistryZhejiang Normal University Jinhua Zhejiang 321004 China
| | - Jingyu Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and MaterialsJilin University 2699 Qianjin Street Changchun 130012 China
| | - Jinshi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Siyang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Xiao‐Shun Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis MaterialsInstitute of Physical ChemistryZhejiang Normal University Jinhua Zhejiang 321004 China
| | - Bin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and MaterialsJilin University 2699 Qianjin Street Changchun 130012 China
| | - Zujin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and DevicesGuangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular AggregatesSouth China University of Technology Guangzhou 510640 China
- Department of ChemistryThe Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
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17
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Zheng H, Jiang F, He R, Yang Y, Shi J, Hong W. Charge Transport through Peptides in Single‐Molecule Electrical Measurements. CHINESE J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.201900245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Haining Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, iChEM, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Joint Research Center for Peptide Drug R&D with Space Peptides, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Runze He
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, iChEM, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
- Joint Research Center for Peptide Drug R&D with Space Peptides, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, iChEM, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Jia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, iChEM, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
| | - Wenjing Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, iChEM, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
- Joint Research Center for Peptide Drug R&D with Space Peptides, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University Xiamen Fujian 361005 China
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18
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Li ZQ, Tang JH, Zhong YW. Multidentate Anchors for Surface Functionalization. Chem Asian J 2019; 14:3119-3126. [PMID: 31389657 DOI: 10.1002/asia.201900989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The bottom-up functionalization of solid surfaces shows increasing importance for a wide range of interdisciplinary applications. Multidentate anchors with more than two contact points can bind to solid surfaces with strong chemisorption, well-defined upright configuration, and tailored functionality. The surface functionalization using multidentate anchors with three (tripodal), four (quadripodal), or more binding points is summarized herein, with a focus on those beyond classical tripodal anchors. In particular, the molecular design on how to achieve multisite interaction between anchor and substrate and the introduction of functional groups to thin films are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Qiu Li
- Key Laboratory of Photochemistry, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2 Bei Yi Jie, Zhong Guan Cun, Haidian District, Beijing, 100190, China.,School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jian-Hong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Photochemistry, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2 Bei Yi Jie, Zhong Guan Cun, Haidian District, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Yu-Wu Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Photochemistry, Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, CAS Research/Education Center for Excellence in Molecular Sciences, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2 Bei Yi Jie, Zhong Guan Cun, Haidian District, Beijing, 100190, China.,School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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19
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Chen X, Zhou C, Guo X. Ultrasensitive Detection and Binding Mechanism of Cocaine in an Aptamer‐based Single‐molecule Device. CHINESE J CHEM 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.201900225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xinjiani Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Center for Life SciencesPeking University Beijing 100871 China
| | - Chenguang Zhou
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringPeking University Beijing 100871 China
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, State Key Laboratory for Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringPeking University Beijing 100871 China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of EngineeringPeking University Beijing 100871 China
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20
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Wang G, Zeng BF, Zhao SQ, Qian QZ, Hong W, Yang Y. Application of electrochemistry to single-molecule junctions: from construction to modulation. Sci China Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-019-9523-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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21
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22
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Analytical modeling of the junction evolution in single-molecule break junctions: towards quantitative characterization of the time-dependent process. Sci China Chem 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11426-019-9493-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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23
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Side-group chemical gating via reversible optical and electric control in a single molecule transistor. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1450. [PMID: 30926785 PMCID: PMC6440973 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09120-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
By taking advantage of large changes in geometric and electronic structure during the reversible trans–cis isomerisation, azobenzene derivatives have been widely studied for potential applications in information processing and digital storage devices. Here we report an unusual discovery of unambiguous conductance switching upon light and electric field-induced isomerisation of azobenzene in a robust single-molecule electronic device for the first time. Both experimental and theoretical data consistently demonstrate that the azobenzene sidegroup serves as a viable chemical gate controlled by electric field, which efficiently modulates the energy difference of trans and cis forms as well as the energy barrier of isomerisation. In conjunction with photoinduced switching at low biases, these results afford a chemically-gateable, fully-reversible, two-mode, single-molecule transistor, offering a fresh perspective for creating future multifunctional single-molecule optoelectronic devices in a practical way. It remains a challenge to fully control molecular electronics. Here, Meng et al. show a reversible two-mode single-molecule switch, where the conductance through the molecular backbone is controlled by an in situ chemical gating via bias-dependent trans–cis isomerisation on an azobenzene sidegroup.
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