1
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Bi L, Jamnuch S, Chen A, Do A, Balto KP, Wang Z, Zhu Q, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Tao AR, Pascal TA, Figueroa JS, Li S. Molecular-Scale Visualization of Steric Effects of Ligand Binding to Reconstructed Au(111) Surfaces. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:11764-11772. [PMID: 38625675 PMCID: PMC11066864 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Direct imaging of single molecules at nanostructured interfaces is a grand challenge with potential to enable new, precise material architectures and technologies. Of particular interest are the structural morphology and spectroscopic signatures of the adsorbed molecule, where modern probes are only now being developed with the necessary spatial and energetic resolution to provide detailed information at the molecule-surface interface. Here, we directly characterize the adsorption of individual m-terphenyl isocyanide ligands on a reconstructed Au(111) surface through scanning tunneling microscopy and inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. The site-dependent steric pressure of the various surface features alters the vibrational fingerprints of the m-terphenyl isocyanides, which are characterized with single-molecule precision through joint experimental and theoretical approaches. This study provides molecular-level insights into the steric-pressure-enabled surface binding selectivity as well as its effect on the chemical properties of individual surface-binding ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liya Bi
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
| | - Sasawat Jamnuch
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Amanda Chen
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Alexandria Do
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Krista P. Balto
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
| | - Zhe Wang
- Institute
of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University
of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
| | - Qingyi Zhu
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
| | - Yufei Wang
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Yanning Zhang
- Institute
of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University
of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
| | - Andrea R. Tao
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Tod A. Pascal
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
- Department
of Nano and Chemical Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0448, United States
| | - Joshua S. Figueroa
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
| | - Shaowei Li
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0309, United States
- Program
in Materials Science and Engineering, University
of California, San Diego, California 92093-0418, United States
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2
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Xie B, Ji Z, Wu J, Zhang R, Jin Y, Watanabe K, Taniguchi T, Liu Z, Cai X. Probing the Inelastic Electron Tunneling via the Photocurrent in a Vertical Graphene van der Waals Heterostructure. ACS NANO 2023; 17:18352-18358. [PMID: 37695240 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c05666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Inelastic electron tunneling (IET), accompanied by energy transfer between the tunneling charge carriers and other elementary excitations, is widely used to investigate the collective modes and quasiparticles in solid-state materials. In general, the inelastic contribution to the tunneling current is small compared to the elastic part and is therefore only prominent in the second derivative of the tunneling current with respect to the bias voltage. Here we demonstrate a direct observation of the IET by measuring the photoresponse in a graphene-based vertical tunnel junction device. Characteristic peaks/valleys are observed in the bias-voltage-dependent tunneling photocurrent at low temperatures, which barely shift with the gate voltage applied to graphene and diminish gradually as the temperature increases. By comparing with the second-order differential conductance spectra, we establish that these features are associated with the phonon-assisted IET. A simple model based on the photoexcited hot-carrier tunneling in graphene qualitatively explains the response. Our study points to a promising means of probing the low-energy elementary excitations utilizing the graphene-based van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binghe Xie
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
- Department of Micro/Nano Electronics, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijie Ji
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
- Department of Micro/Nano Electronics, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
- Department of Micro/Nano Electronics, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruan Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
- Department of Micro/Nano Electronics, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunmin Jin
- Department of Micro/Nano Electronics, School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Thin Film and Microfabrication Technology (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Kenji Watanabe
- National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-00044, Japan
| | - Takashi Taniguchi
- National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-00044, Japan
| | - Zhao Liu
- Zhejiang Institute of Modern Physics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinghan Cai
- National Key Laboratory of Advanced Micro and Nano Manufacture Technology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, People's Republic of China
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3
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Ngabonziza P, Wang Y, van Aken PA, Maier J, Mannhart J. Inelastic Electron Tunneling Spectroscopy at High-Temperatures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2007299. [PMID: 33458887 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202007299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ion conducting materials are critical components of batteries, fuel cells, and devices such as memristive switches. Analytical tools are therefore sought that allow the behavior of ions in solids to be monitored and analyzed with high spatial resolution and in real time. In principle, inelastic tunneling spectroscopy offers these capabilities. However, as its spectral resolution is limited by thermal softening of the Fermi-Dirac distribution, tunneling spectroscopy is usually constrained to cryogenic temperatures. This constraint would seem to render tunneling spectroscopy useless for studying ions in motion. Here, the first inelastic tunneling spectroscopy studies above room temperature are reported. For these measurements, high-temperature-stable tunnel junctions that incorporate within the tunnel barrier ultrathin layers for efficient proton conduction are developed. By analyzing the vibrational modes of OH bonds in BaZrO3 -based heterostructures, the detection of protons with a spectral resolution of 20 meV at 400 K (full-width-at-half maximum) is demonstrated. Overturning the hitherto existing prediction for the spectral resolution limit of 186 meV (5.4 kB T ) at 400 K, this resolution enables high-temperature tunneling spectroscopy of ion conductors. With these advances, inelastic tunneling spectroscopy constitutes a novel, valuable analytical tool for solid-state ionics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Ngabonziza
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstraße 1, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Yi Wang
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstraße 1, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Peter A van Aken
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstraße 1, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Joachim Maier
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstraße 1, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
| | - Jochen Mannhart
- Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Heisenbergstraße 1, Stuttgart, 70569, Germany
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4
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Taniguchi M. Paving the way to single-molecule chemistry through molecular electronics. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 21:9641-9650. [PMID: 31062773 DOI: 10.1039/c9cp00264b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Since our understanding of single-molecule junctions, in which single molecules are connected between nanoelectrodes, has deepened, we have paved the way to single-molecule chemistry. Herein, we review fundamental properties, including the number of molecules connected to the electrode, their structure and type, the bonding force between the single molecule and electrode and the thermopower and quantum interference in single-molecule junctions. Additionally, we review the application of single-molecule junctions to biomolecules. Finally, we explore single-molecule chemical reaction analysis, which is one direction of single-molecule junction research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masateru Taniguchi
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan.
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5
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Montes E, Foti G, Vázquez H. Crossover in the inelastic electron tunneling spectra of conjugated molecules with direct Au-C links. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2019; 21:1564-1571. [PMID: 30620028 DOI: 10.1039/c8cp06290k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We use inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) first-principles simulations to identify and characterize the different vibrational modes of single conjugated molecules bonded to Au metal electrodes. The molecules are polyphenyls (with 1 to 4 benzene units) bonded to Au via highly conducting direct Au-C bonds. The short molecule shows near resonant elastic transmission, with a crossover to tunneling for the longer backbones. The calculated inelastic spectra exhibit dips in the IETS signal of the short molecule and peaks for the longer molecules. We characterize the symmetry of vibrational modes and scattering states and discuss the changes with increasing length, where the inelastic signal of different modes can be amplified, quenched or present a crossover as more benzene units are added to the molecular backbone. This analysis rationalizes the observed trends as a function of molecular length and illustrates the role of electronic and vibrational properties on Au-C bonded molecular junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Montes
- Institute of Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Cukrovarnická 10, Prague 16200, Czech Republic.
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6
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Tsuji Y, Yoshizawa K. Effects of electron-phonon coupling on quantum interference in polyenes. J Chem Phys 2018; 149:134115. [DOI: 10.1063/1.5048955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Tsuji
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering and IRCCS, Kyushu University, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kazunari Yoshizawa
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering and IRCCS, Kyushu University, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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7
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Kim Y, Bahoosh SG, Sysoiev D, Huhn T, Pauly F, Scheer E. Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy of difurylethene-based photochromic single-molecule junctions. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 8:2606-2614. [PMID: 29259875 PMCID: PMC5727803 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.8.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Diarylethene-derived molecules alter their electronic structure upon transformation between the open and closed forms of the diarylethene core, when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) or visible light. This transformation results in a significant variation of electrical conductance and vibrational properties of corresponding molecular junctions. We report here a combined experimental and theoretical analysis of charge transport through diarylethene-derived single-molecule devices, which are created using the mechanically controlled break-junction technique. Inelastic electron tunneling (IET) spectroscopy measurements performed at 4.2 K are compared with first-principles calculations in the two distinct forms of diarylethenes connected to gold electrodes. The combined approach clearly demonstrates that the IET spectra of single-molecule junctions show specific vibrational features that can be used to identify different isomeric molecular states by transport experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngsang Kim
- Chemical Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Lam Research, Fremont, California 94538, United States
| | - Safa G Bahoosh
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Dmytro Sysoiev
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Huhn
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Fabian Pauly
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna-son, Okinawa 904-0395, Japan
| | - Elke Scheer
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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8
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Leng J, Zhao L, Zhang Y, Ma H. Intermolecular interaction effect on the inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy of bi-octane-monothiol junctions. Chem Phys Lett 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2016.11.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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9
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Karimi MA, Bahoosh SG, Valášek M, Bürkle M, Mayor M, Pauly F, Scheer E. Identification of the current path for a conductive molecular wire on a tripodal platform. NANOSCALE 2016; 8:10582-10590. [PMID: 27163116 DOI: 10.1039/c5nr08708b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
We present the chemical synthesis as well as charge transport measurements and calculations for a new tripodal platform based on a rigid 9,9'-spirobifluorene equipped with a phenylene-ethynylene wire. The transport experiments are performed with the help of the low-temperature mechanically controlled break junction technique with gold electrodes. By combining experimental and theoretical investigations of elastic and inelastic charge transport, we show that the current proceeds through the designated molecular wire and identify a binding geometry that is compatible with the experimental observations. The conductive molecular wire on the platform features a well-defined and relatively high conductance of the order of 10(-3)G0 despite the length of the current path of more than 1.7 nm, demonstrating that this platform is suitable to incorporate functional units like molecular switches or sensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Karimi
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
| | - S G Bahoosh
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
| | - M Valášek
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Institute of Nanotechnology, P.O. Box 3640, 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - M Bürkle
- Nanosystem Research Institute (NRI) 'RICS', National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8568, Japan
| | - M Mayor
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Institute of Nanotechnology, P.O. Box 3640, 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany and Department of Chemistry, University of Basel, 4056 Basel, Switzerland and Lehn Institute of Functional Materials (LIFM), Sun Yat-Sen University (SYSU), Xingang Rd. W., Guangzhou, China
| | - F Pauly
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
| | - E Scheer
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
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10
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Xiang D, Wang X, Jia C, Lee T, Guo X. Molecular-Scale Electronics: From Concept to Function. Chem Rev 2016; 116:4318-440. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 816] [Impact Index Per Article: 102.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xiang
- Beijing
National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for
Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry
and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Key
Laboratory of Optical Information Science and Technology, Institute
of Modern Optics, College of Electronic Information and Optical Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xiaolong Wang
- Beijing
National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for
Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry
and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chuancheng Jia
- Beijing
National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for
Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry
and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Takhee Lee
- Department
of Physics and Astronomy, and Institute of Applied Physics, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Xuefeng Guo
- Beijing
National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, State Key Laboratory for
Structural Chemistry of Unstable and Stable Species, College of Chemistry
and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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11
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Lu SY, Lin JS. A nano Ag 5 cluster tip probing the vertical transfer of CO (ads) adsorbed on Ag(110) with simulated inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra06728f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A nano Ag5 tip probing the transfer of CO(ads) on Ag(110) surface is investigated with simulated inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy generated by combining DFT-based MD simulations with a FT-ACF of the derivative of local density of states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Yu Lu
- Department of Chemistry
- Tamkang University
- Tamsui
- Taiwan 25137
| | - Jyh-Shing Lin
- Department of Chemistry
- Tamkang University
- Tamsui
- Taiwan 25137
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12
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Ding Z, Sun Z, Li G, Meng F, Wu M, Ma Y, Chen X. The inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy of curved finite-sized graphene nanoribbon based molecular devices. RSC Adv 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5ra09727d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The inelastic electron scattering properties of the molecular devices of curved finite-sized graphene nanoribbon (GNR) slices have been studied by combining the density functional theory and Green's function method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongling Ding
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
- Co-operative Innovation Research Center for Weak Signal-Detecting Materials and Devices Integration
- Anhui University
| | - Zhaoqi Sun
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
| | - Guang Li
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
| | - Fanming Meng
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
| | - Mingzai Wu
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
| | - Yongqing Ma
- School of Physics and Material Science
- Anhui University
- Hefei, China
| | - Xiaoshuang Chen
- National Lab. of Infrared Physics
- Shanghai Institute for Technical Physics
- Chinese Academy of Sciences
- Shanghai, China
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13
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Lykkebo J, Gagliardi A, Pecchia A, Solomon GC. IETS and quantum interference: Propensity rules in the presence of an interference feature. J Chem Phys 2014; 141:124119. [DOI: 10.1063/1.4896234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Lykkebo
- Nano-Science Center and Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Alessio Gagliardi
- Technische Universität München, Electrical Engineering and Information Tech., Arcisstr. 21, 80333 München, Germany
| | - Alessandro Pecchia
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, ISMN, Via Salaria km 29.6, 00017 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| | - Gemma C. Solomon
- Nano-Science Center and Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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14
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Ségerie A, Lin LL, Liégeois V, Luo Y, Champagne B. Effects of the basis set and of the exchange-correlation functional on the Inelastic Electron Tunneling signatures of 1,4-benzenedithiol. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2014; 119:34-41. [PMID: 23831045 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2013.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Revised: 05/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/12/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
The effects of the atomic basis set and of the exchange-correlation (XC) functional on the Inelastic Electron Tunneling (IET) spectra have been investigated by considering the prototypical 1,4-benzenedithiol molecule. These studies have been completed by tackling the reliability of the same methods for predicting the IR absorption spectrum of the same molecule. The main conclusions are (i) the B3LYP XC functional is suitable to predict the relative vibrational frequencies, (ii) provided a scaling factor is used, the root mean square error on the vibrational frequencies goes down to 18 cm(-1), (iii) triple-ζ basis sets and in particular the cc-pVTZ basis set is a good compromise between accuracy and computational needs, (iv) basis set effects on the IET intensities are larger than those of the XC functional, and (v) the cc-pVTZ, cc-pVQZ, and aug-cc-pVDZ basis sets provide consistent IET intensities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Ségerie
- Laboratoire de Chimie Théorique, Unité de Chimie Physique Théorique et Structurale, University of Namur, Rue de Bruxelles 61, B-5000 Namur, Belgium
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15
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Ségerie A, Liégeois V, Champagne B, Lin LL, Luo Y. Theoretical Insight into the Inelastic Electron Tunneling Spectra of an Anil Derivative. J Phys Chem A 2013; 117:12783-95. [DOI: 10.1021/jp408068d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Ségerie
- Laboratoire
de Chimie Théorique, University of Namur, rue de Bruxelles,
61, B-5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Vincent Liégeois
- Laboratoire
de Chimie Théorique, University of Namur, rue de Bruxelles,
61, B-5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Benoît Champagne
- Laboratoire
de Chimie Théorique, University of Namur, rue de Bruxelles,
61, B-5000 Namur, Belgium
| | - Li-Li Lin
- Department
of Theoretical Chemistry, School of Biotechnology, Royal Institute of Technology, S-10691 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yi Luo
- Department
of Theoretical Chemistry, School of Biotechnology, Royal Institute of Technology, S-10691 Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Lykkebo J, Gagliardi A, Pecchia A, Solomon GC. Strong overtones modes in inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy with cross-conjugated molecules: a prediction from theory. ACS NANO 2013; 7:9183-94. [PMID: 24067128 PMCID: PMC3807527 DOI: 10.1021/nn4037915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Cross-conjugated molecules are known to exhibit destructive quantum interference, a property that has recently received considerable attention in single-molecule electronics. Destructive quantum interference can be understood as an antiresonance in the elastic transmission near the Fermi energy and leading to suppressed levels of elastic current. In most theoretical studies, only the elastic contributions to the current are taken into account. In this paper, we study the inelastic contributions to the current in cross-conjugated molecules and find that while the inelastic contribution to the current is larger than for molecules without interference, the overall behavior of the molecule is still dominated by the quantum interference feature. Second, an ongoing challenge for single molecule electronics is understanding and controlling the local geometry at the molecule-surface interface. With this in mind, we investigate a spectroscopic method capable of providing insight into these junctions for cross-conjugated molecules: inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS). IETS has the advantage that the molecule interface is probed directly by the tunneling current. Previously, it has been thought that overtones are not observable in IETS. Here, overtones are predicted to be strong and, in some cases, the dominant spectroscopic features. We study the origin of the overtones and find that the interference features in these molecules are the key ingredient. The interference feature is a property of the transmission channels of the π system only, and consequently, in the vicinity of the interference feature, the transmission channels of the σ system and the π system become equally transmissive. This allows for scattering between the different transmission channels, which serves as a pathway to bypass the interference feature. A simple model calculation is able to reproduce the results obtained from atomistic calculations, and we use this to interpret these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Lykkebo
- Nano-Science Center and Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Alessio Gagliardi
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Università di Roma “Tor Vergata”, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Pecchia
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, ISMN, Via Salaria km 29.6, 00017 Monterotondo, Rome, Italy
| | - Gemma C. Solomon
- Nano-Science Center and Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
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17
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Xiang D, Jeong H, Lee T, Mayer D. Mechanically controllable break junctions for molecular electronics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2013; 25:4845-67. [PMID: 23913697 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201301589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
A mechanically controllable break junction (MCBJ) represents a fundamental technique for the investigation of molecular electronic junctions, especially for the study of the electronic properties of single molecules. With unique advantages, the MCBJ technique has provided substantial insight into charge transport processes in molecules. In this review, the techniques for sample fabrication, operation and the various applications of MCBJs are introduced and the history, challenges and future of MCBJs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xiang
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-747, Korea
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18
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Burema SR, Seufert K, Auwärter W, Barth JV, Bocquet ML. Probing nitrosyl ligation of surface-confined metalloporphyrins by inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. ACS NANO 2013; 7:5273-81. [PMID: 23718257 PMCID: PMC3833350 DOI: 10.1021/nn4010582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Complexes obtained by the ligation of nitric oxide (NO) to metalloporphyrins represent important model systems with biological relevance. Herein we report a molecular-level investigation of surface-confined cobalt tetraphenyl porphyrin (Co-TPP) species and their interaction with NO under ultrahigh vacuum conditions. It is demonstrated that individual NO adducts can be desorbed using the atomically sharp tip of a scanning tunneling microscope, whereby a writing process is implemented for fully saturated regular metalloporphyrin arrays. The low-energy vibrational characteristics of individual Co-TPP-nitrosyl complexes probed by inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) reveal a prominent signature at an energy of ~/=31 meV. Using density functional theory-based IETS simulations-the first to be performed on such an extensive interfacial nanosystem-we succeed to reproduce the low-frequency spectrum for the NO-ligated complex and explain the absence of IETS activity for bare Co-TPP. Moreover, we can conclusively assign the IETS peak of NO-Co-TPP to a unique vibration mode involving the NO complexation site, namely, the in-plane Co-N-O rocking mode. In addition, we verify that the propensity rules previously designed on small aromatic systems and molecular fragments hold true for a metal-organic entity. This work notably permits one to envisage IETS spectroscopy as a sensitive tool to chemically characterize hybrid interfaces formed by complex metal-organic units and gaseous adducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiri R. Burema
- Laboratoire de Chimie, CNRS UMR 5182, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, 46 Allée d’Italie, 69364 CEDEX07 Lyon, France
| | - Knud Seufert
- Physik Department E20, Technische Universität München, James-Franck Str. D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Willi Auwärter
- Physik Department E20, Technische Universität München, James-Franck Str. D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Johannes V. Barth
- Physik Department E20, Technische Universität München, James-Franck Str. D-85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Marie-Laure Bocquet
- Laboratoire de Chimie, CNRS UMR 5182, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, 46 Allée d’Italie, 69364 CEDEX07 Lyon, France
- Address correspondence to
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19
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Schmucker AL, Barin G, Brown KA, Rycenga M, Coskun A, Buyukcakir O, Osberg KD, Stoddart JF, Mirkin CA. Electronic and optical vibrational spectroscopy of molecular transport junctions created by on-wire lithography. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2013; 9:1900-1903. [PMID: 23129396 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201201993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abrin L Schmucker
- Department of Chemistry and International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University, 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60208-3113, USA
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20
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Kim Y, Garcia-Lekue A, Sysoiev D, Frederiksen T, Groth U, Scheer E. Charge transport in azobenzene-based single-molecule junctions. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2012; 109:226801. [PMID: 23368145 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.109.226801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Azobenzene-derivative molecules change their conformation as a result of a cis-trans transition when exposed to ultraviolet or visible light irradiation and this is expected to induce a significant variation in the conductance of molecular devices. Despite extensive investigations carried out on this type of molecule, a detailed understanding of the charge transport for the two isomers is still lacking. We report a combined experimental and theoretical analysis of electron transport through azobenzene-derivative single-molecule break junctions with Au electrodes. Current-voltage and inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) measurements performed at 4.2 K are interpreted based on first-principles calculations of electron transmission and IETS spectra. This qualitative study unravels the origin of a slightly higher conductance of junctions with the cis isomer and demonstrates that IETS spectra of cis and trans forms show distinct vibrational fingerprints that can be used for identifying the isomer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngsang Kim
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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21
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Franke KJ, Pascual JI. Effects of electron-vibration coupling in transport through single molecules. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2012; 24:394002. [PMID: 22964796 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/24/39/394002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Using scanning tunneling spectroscopy, we study the transport of electrons through C(60) molecules on different metal surfaces. When electrons tunnel through a molecule, they may excite molecular vibrations. A fingerprint of these processes is a characteristic sub-structure in the differential conductance spectra of the molecular junction reflecting the onset of vibrational excitation. Although the intensity of these processes is generally weak, they become more important as the resonant character of the transport mechanism increases. The detection of single vibrational levels crucially depends on the energy level alignment and lifetimes of excited states. In the limit of large current densities, resonant electron-vibration coupling leads to an energy accumulation in the molecule, which eventually leads to its decomposition. With our experiments on C(60) we are able to depict a molecular scale picture of how electrons interact with the vibrational degrees of freedom of single molecules in different transport regimes. This understanding helps in the development of stable molecular devices, which may also carry a switchable functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina J Franke
- Fachbereich Physik, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
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22
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Demir F, Kirczenow G. Inelastic tunneling spectroscopy of gold-thiol and gold-thiolate interfaces in molecular junctions: the role of hydrogen. J Chem Phys 2012; 137:094703. [PMID: 22957582 DOI: 10.1063/1.4748379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely believed that when a molecule with thiol (S-H) end groups bridges a pair of gold electrodes, the S atoms bond to the gold and the thiol H atoms detach from the molecule. However, little is known regarding the details of this process, its time scale, and whether molecules with and without thiol hydrogen atoms can coexist in molecular junctions. Here, we explore theoretically how inelastic tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) can shed light on these issues. We present calculations of the geometries, low bias conductances, and IETS of propanedithiol and propanedithiolate molecular junctions with gold electrodes. We show that IETS can distinguish between junctions with molecules having no, one, or two thiol hydrogen atoms. We find that in most cases, the single-molecule junctions in the IETS experiment of Hihath et al. [Nano Lett. 8, 1673 (2008)] had no thiol H atoms, but that a molecule with a single thiol H atom may have bridged their junction occasionally. We also consider the evolution of the IETS spectrum as a gold STM tip approaches the intact S-H group at the end of a molecule bound at its other end to a second electrode. We predict the frequency of a vibrational mode of the thiol H atom to increase by a factor ~2 as the gap between the tip and molecule narrows. Therefore, IETS should be able to track the approach of the tip towards the thiol group of the molecule and detect the detachment of the thiol H atom from the molecule when it occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firuz Demir
- Department of Physics, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada.
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23
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Burema SR, Bocquet ML. Sensitizers in inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy: a first-principles study of functional aromatics on Cu(111). NANOTECHNOLOGY 2012; 23:315702. [PMID: 22797417 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/23/31/315702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Low sensitivity is a key problem in inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) with the scanning tunneling microscope. Using first-principles simulations, we predict different means to tune the IETS sensitivity of symmetrical functional aromatics on a Cu(111) surface. We show how the IET-spectra of phenyl-NO₂ compounds can be greatly enhanced as compared to pristine phenyl. More precisely, the NO₂ substituent qualifies as a sensitizer of low-frequency wagging modes, but also as a quencher of high-frequency stretching modes. At variance, the CO₂ substituent is found to suppress the whole IET-activity. The head-up (non-anchoring) and head-down (anchoring) configurations of the functional group lead to minor changes in the signals, nevertheless allowing access to discriminate configurational features. It is shown how to disentangle the electronic and steric effects of the substituent in the STM junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Burema
- Laboratoire de Chimie, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université de Lyon, CNRS, France
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24
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Hsu BC, Chiang CW, Chen YC. Effect of electron-vibration interactions on the thermoelectric efficiency of molecular junctions. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2012; 23:275401. [PMID: 22706566 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/23/27/275401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
From first-principles approaches, we investigate the thermoelectric efficiency of a molecular junction where a benzene molecule is connected directly to the platinum electrodes. We calculate the thermoelectric figure of merit ZT in the presence of electron-vibration interactions with and without local heating under two scenarios: linear response and finite bias regimes. In the linear response regime, ZT saturates around the electrode temperature T(e) = 25 K in the elastic case, while in the inelastic case we observe a non-saturated and a much larger ZT beyond T(e) = 25 K attributed to the tail of the Fermi-Dirac distribution. In the finite bias regime, the inelastic effects reveal the signatures of the molecular vibrations in the low-temperature regime. The normal modes exhibiting structures in the inelastic profile are characterized by large components of atomic vibrations along the current density direction on top of each individual atom. In all cases, the inclusion of local heating leads to a higher wire temperature T(w) and thus magnifies further the influence of the electron-vibration interactions due to the increased number of local phonons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey C Hsu
- Department of Electrophysics, National Chiao Tung University, 1001 University Road, Hsinchu 30010, Taiwan
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25
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Burema SR, Lorente N, Bocquet ML. A theoretical rationalization of a total inelastic electron tunneling spectrum: the comparative cases of formate and benzoate on Cu(111). J Chem Phys 2012; 136:244507. [PMID: 22755587 DOI: 10.1063/1.4730168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) performed with the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) has been deemed as the ultimate tool for identifying chemicals at the atomic scale. However, direct IETS-based chemical analysis remains difficult due to the selection rules that await a definite understanding. We present IETS simulations of single formate and benzoate species adsorbed in the same upright bridge geometry on a (111)-cleaved Cu surface. In agreement with measurements on a related substrate, the simulated IET-spectra of formate/Cu(111) clearly resolve one intense C-H stretching mode whatever the tip position in the vicinity of the molecular fragment. At variance, benzoate/Cu(111) has no detectable IET signal. The dissimilar IETS responses of chemically related molecules--formate and benzoate adsorbates--permit us to unveil another factor that complements the selection rules, namely the degree of the vacuum extension of the tunneling active states perturbed by the vibrations. As a consequence, the lack of a topmost dangling bond orbital is entirely detrimental for STM-based inelastic spectroscopy but not for STM elastic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Burema
- Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Laboratoire de Chimie, CNRS UMR 5182, 46 Allée d'Italie, 69364 Lyon Cedex 07, France
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26
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Tsutsui M, Taniguchi M. Single molecule electronics and devices. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2012; 12:7259-98. [PMID: 22969345 PMCID: PMC3435974 DOI: 10.3390/s120607259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The manufacture of integrated circuits with single-molecule building blocks is a goal of molecular electronics. While research in the past has been limited to bulk experiments on self-assembled monolayers, advances in technology have now enabled us to fabricate single-molecule junctions. This has led to significant progress in understanding electron transport in molecular systems at the single-molecule level and the concomitant emergence of new device concepts. Here, we review recent developments in this field. We summarize the methods currently used to form metal-molecule-metal structures and some single-molecule techniques essential for characterizing molecular junctions such as inelastic electron tunnelling spectroscopy. We then highlight several important achievements, including demonstration of single-molecule diodes, transistors, and switches that make use of electrical, photo, and mechanical stimulation to control the electron transport. We also discuss intriguing issues to be addressed further in the future such as heat and thermoelectric transport in an individual molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makusu Tsutsui
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan; E-Mail:
| | - Masateru Taniguchi
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan; E-Mail:
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27
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Dash LK, Ness H, Verstraete MJ, Godby RW. Functionality in single-molecule devices: Model calculations and applications of the inelastic electron tunneling signal in molecular junctions. J Chem Phys 2012; 136:064708. [DOI: 10.1063/1.3684627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
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28
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Demir F, Kirczenow G. Identification of the atomic scale structures of the gold-thiol interfaces of molecular nanowires by inelastic tunneling spectroscopy. J Chem Phys 2012; 136:014703. [DOI: 10.1063/1.3671455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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29
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Morgenstern K. On the interpretation of IETS spectra of a small organic molecule. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2011; 23:484007. [PMID: 22086063 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/48/484007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We have investigated vibrational spectra of nitrobenzene molecules adsorbed on Cu(111) by low temperature inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. This molecule, which should support 39 internal modes, only gives rise to seven peaks in the spectra. We outline a comparison with ensemble IR data and interpret the small number of vibrational peaks by the superposition of a multitude of almost isoenergetic vibrational modes. The non-detectability of further modes cannot be understood in terms of symmetry considerations. Additional modes in the spectra are attributed to external molecular-metal vibrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Morgenstern
- Institut für Festkörperphysik, Abteilung ATMOS, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover, Germany
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30
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Molecular electronic junction transport: some pathways and some ideas. Top Curr Chem (Cham) 2011. [PMID: 21915776 DOI: 10.1007/128_2011_227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
When a single molecule, or a collection of molecules, is placed between two electrodes and voltage is applied, one has a molecular transport junction. We discuss such junctions, their properties, their description, and some of their applications. The discussion is qualitative rather than quantitative, and focuses on mechanism, structure/function relations, regimes and mechanisms of transport, some molecular regularities, and some substantial challenges facing the field. Because there are many regimes and mechanisms in transport junctions, we will discuss time scales, geometries, and inelastic scattering methods for trying to determine the properties of molecules within these junctions. Finally, we discuss some device applications, some outstanding problems, and some future directions.
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31
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Kim Y, Hellmuth TJ, Bürkle M, Pauly F, Scheer E. Characteristics of amine-ended and thiol-ended alkane single-molecule junctions revealed by inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. ACS NANO 2011; 5:4104-11. [PMID: 21506567 DOI: 10.1021/nn200759s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
A combined experimental and theoretical analysis of the charge transport through single-molecule junctions is performed to define the influence of molecular end groups for increasing electrode separation. For both amine-ended and thiol-ended octanes contacted to gold electrodes, we study signatures of chain formation by analyzing kinks in conductance traces, the junction length, and inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. The results show that for amine-ended molecular junctions no atomic chains are pulled under stretching, whereas the Au electrodes strongly deform for thiol-ended molecular junctions. This advanced approach hence provides unambiguous evidence that the amine anchors bind only weakly to Au.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngsang Kim
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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32
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Kim Y, Song H, Strigl F, Pernau HF, Lee T, Scheer E. Conductance and vibrational states of single-molecule junctions controlled by mechanical stretching and material variation. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2011; 106:196804. [PMID: 21668188 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.106.196804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2010] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The changes of molecular conformation, contact geometry, and metal-molecule bonding are revealed by inelastic-electron-tunneling spectroscopy measurements characterizing the molecular vibrational modes and the metal-phonon modes in alkanedithiol molecular junctions at low temperature. Combining inelastic-electron-tunneling spectroscopy with mechanical control and electrode material variation (Au or Pt) enables separating the influence of contact geometry and of molecular conformation. The mechanical strain of different electrode materials can be imposed onto the molecule, opening a new route for controlling the charge transport through individual molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngsang Kim
- Department of Physics, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
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33
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Gorjizadeh N, Farajian AA, Kawazoe Y. Non-coherent transport in carbon chains. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2011; 23:075301. [PMID: 21411880 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/23/7/075301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The effect of electron-phonon (e-ph) interaction on the conductance of carbon chains is investigated by a non-equilibrium Green's function technique combined with a four-orbitals-per-atom tight-binding Hamiltonian. The optimized structure of the chain is found to be the semiconducting polyyne type (···-C≡C-C≡C-···). Our results show that the conductance of a carbon chain attached to two fixed contacts decreases due to e-ph interaction, and this reduction is stronger for longitudinal phonon modes which decrease the hopping energy between carbon atoms. Study of individual phonon modes reveals that emission of longitudinal phonons is stronger than that of transverse modes at room temperature, while absorption of transverse phonons is dominant. Conductance at finite temperature is also studied by considering the overall phonon effects; this shows that the reduction of the conductance is stronger at higher temperatures. The results are explained on the basis of the unique features of the carbon chain band structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Gorjizadeh
- Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan.
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34
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Bergren AJ, McCreery RL. Analytical chemistry in molecular electronics. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2011; 4:173-195. [PMID: 21370986 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061010-113847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This review discusses the analytical characterization of molecular electronic devices and structures relevant thereto. In particular, we outline the methods for probing molecular junctions, which contain an ensemble of molecules between two contacts. We discuss the analytical methods that aid in the fabrication and characterization of molecular junctions, beginning with the confirmation of the placement of a molecular layer on a conductive or semiconductive substrate. We emphasize methods that provide information about the molecular layer in the junction and outline techniques to ensure molecular layer integrity after the complete fabrication of a device. In addition, we discuss the analytical information derived during the actual device operation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Johan Bergren
- National Institute for Nanotechnology, National Research Council Canada, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2M9, Canada.
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35
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36
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Volkovich R, Härtle R, Thoss M, Peskin U. Bias-controlled selective excitation of vibrational modes in molecular junctions: a route towards mode-selective chemistry. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2011; 13:14333-49. [DOI: 10.1039/c1cp21161g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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37
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Fock J, Sørensen JK, Lörtscher E, Vosch T, Martin CA, Riel H, Kilså K, Bjørnholm T, van der Zant H. A statistical approach to inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy on fullerene-terminated molecules. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2011; 13:14325-32. [DOI: 10.1039/c1cp20861f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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38
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Härtle R, Volkovich R, Thoss M, Peskin U. Communication: Mode-selective vibrational excitation induced by nonequilibrium transport processes in single-molecule junctions. J Chem Phys 2010; 133:081102. [DOI: 10.1063/1.3474464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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39
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Hihath J, Bruot C, Tao N. Electron-phonon interactions in single octanedithiol molecular junctions. ACS NANO 2010; 4:3823-3830. [PMID: 20553018 DOI: 10.1021/nn100470s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We study the charge transport properties and electron-phonon interactions in single molecule junctions, each consisting of an octanedithiol molecule covalently bound to two electrodes. Conductance measurements over a wide temperature range establish tunneling as the dominant charge transport process. Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy performed on individual molecular junctions provides a chemical signature of the molecule and allows electron-phonon interaction induced changes in the conductance to be explored. By fitting the conductance changes in the molecular junction using a simple model for inelastic transport, it is possible to estimate the phonon damping rates in the molecule. Finally, changes in the inelastic spectra are examined in relation to conductance switching events in the junction to demonstrate how changes in the configuration of the molecule or contact geometry can affect the conductance of the molecular junction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Hihath
- Center for Bioelectronics and Biosensors, the Biodesign Institute, and Department of Electrical Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-5801, USA
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40
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Molecular Wires in Single-Molecule Junctions: Charge Transport and Vibrational Excitations. Chemphyschem 2010; 11:2256-60. [DOI: 10.1002/cphc.200900974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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41
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Dash LK, Ness H, Godby RW. Nonequilibrium electronic structure of interacting single-molecule nanojunctions: Vertex corrections and polarization effects for the electron-vibron coupling. J Chem Phys 2010; 132:104113. [DOI: 10.1063/1.3339390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- L K Dash
- Department of Physics, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom.
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42
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Yokota K, Taniguchi M, Kawai T. Molecular vibrations in metal–single-molecule–metal junctions. Chem Phys Lett 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cplett.2010.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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43
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Taniguchi M, Tsutsui M, Yokota K, Kawai T. Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy of single-molecule junctions using a mechanically controllable break junction. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 20:434008. [PMID: 19801761 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/20/43/434008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We report the use of electrical measurements to identify simultaneously the number and type of organic molecules within metal-molecule-metal junctions. Our strategy combines analyses of single-molecule conductance and inelastic electron tunneling spectra, exploiting a nanofabricated mechanically controllable break junction. We found that the peak linewidth of the inelastic electron tunneling spectrum decreased as the modulation voltage and temperature decreased, and that the selection rule for inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy agrees with that for Raman spectroscopy. Furthermore, the differential conductance curve of the single-molecule junction suggests that it has asymmetrical electrode-molecule coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masateru Taniguchi
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan.
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Tsutsui M, Taniguchi M, Shoji K, Yokota K, Kawai T. Identifying molecular signatures in metal-molecule-metal junctions. NANOSCALE 2009; 1:164-170. [PMID: 20644876 DOI: 10.1039/b9nr00122k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Single molecule identification in metal-molecule-metal junctions provides an ultimate probe that opens a new avenue for revolutionary advances in demonstrating single molecule device functions. Inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy (IETS) is an ultra-sensitive method for probing vibrational characteristics of molecules with atomic resolution. State-of-the-art experiments on the inelastic transport in self-assembled monolayers of organic molecules have demonstrated the utility of the IETS technique to derive structural information concerning molecular conformations and contact configurations. Here we report the vibrational fingerprint of an individual pi-conjugated molecule sandwiched between gold nanoelectrodes. Our strategy combines analyses of single molecule conductance and vibrational spectra exploiting the nanofabricated mechanically-controllable break junction. We performed IETS measurements on 1,4-benzenedithiol and 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole to examine chemical discrimination at the single-molecule level. We found distinct IET spectra unique to the test molecules that agreed excellently with the Raman and theoretical spectra in the fingerprint region, and thereby succeeded in electrical identification of single molecule junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makusu Tsutsui
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
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Kim WY, Choi YC, Min SK, Cho Y, Kim KS. Application of quantum chemistry to nanotechnology: electron and spin transport in molecular devices. Chem Soc Rev 2009; 38:2319-33. [DOI: 10.1039/b820003c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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46
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Tsutsui M, Taniguchi M, Kawai T. Local heating in metal-molecule-metal junctions. NANO LETTERS 2008; 8:3293-3297. [PMID: 18729417 DOI: 10.1021/nl801669e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
We report a technique that can be utilized as a nanoscale thermometer and its application to metal-molecule-metal junctions at room temperatures. We find that a molecular junction heats up to 463 K at 1 V. We also revealed an onset bias of approximately 0.04 V for heat generation via electron-phonon scattering by examining inelastic electron tunneling spectroscopy. The present results suggest the importance of attaining an optimal thermal link at molecule-electrode interfaces for providing practically sufficient electrical durability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makusu Tsutsui
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
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47
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Kornyshev AA, Kuznetsov AM. Simple theory of current fluctuations and noise in bridge-mediated nano-junctions. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2008; 20:374103. [PMID: 21694411 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/20/37/374103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
We develop a simplified, model theory of noise caused by highly damped oscillating conformational fluctuations of a chain molecule mediating a nano-junction. Considering the most 'primitive' approximation of direct tunneling of electrons and barrier coupling with collective coordinates that describe internal conformations of the chain molecule, we derive approximate analytical formulas for the temporary current correlation function, noise power, and Fano factor. We analyze the role of different cumulative parameters of the model that affect the noise, as well as the effect of the temperature and of the number of groups in the chain. We present this analysis in expectation of experiments on this type of noise and in an attempt to trigger such experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Kornyshev
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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Troisi A. Inelastic electron tunnelling in saturated molecules with different functional groups: correlations and symmetry considerations from a computational study. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2008; 20:374111. [PMID: 21694418 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/20/37/374111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The inelastic electron tunnelling (IET) spectra of a series of molecules with the commonest functional groups are evaluated computationally. It is found that ether, secondary amine and thioether groups do not leave any characteristic signatures on the IET spectrum (in comparison with simple alkanes) and they cannot be used as 'tracers' for the tunnelling path of the electron. In contrast, carbonyl and ester groups modify the appearance of the IET spectrum considerably. The series of computations was also used to validate, for the case of saturated molecules, the propensity rules for IET spectroscopy proposed in the literature. It is found that totally symmetric vibrations give the largest contribution to the spectrum and that there is no correlation between IET and infrared or Raman absorption intensities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Troisi
- Department of Chemistry and Centre of Scientific Computing, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
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Hihath J, Arroyo CR, Rubio-Bollinger G, Tao N, Agraït N. Study of electron-phonon interactions in a single molecule covalently connected to two electrodes. NANO LETTERS 2008; 8:1673-1678. [PMID: 18457456 DOI: 10.1021/nl080580e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Presented here is a study of electron-phonon interactions in a single molecule junction where the molecule is covalently connected to two electrodes. In this system, vibration modes in a single molecule junction are measured by sweeping the bias voltage between the two electrodes and recording the differential conductance while the strain in the junction is changed by separating the two electrodes. This unique approach allows changes in conductance to be compared to changes in the configuration of a single molecule junction. This system opens a new door for characterizing single molecule junctions and a better understanding of the relationship between molecular conductance, electron-phonon interactions, and configuration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Hihath
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Center for Solid State Electronics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5706, USA
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Galperin M, Ratner MA, Nitzan A, Troisi A. Nuclear Coupling and Polarization in Molecular Transport Junctions: Beyond Tunneling to Function. Science 2008; 319:1056-60. [DOI: 10.1126/science.1146556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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