Enhanced Separation Concept (ESC)

Removing the Functional Subunit from the Electrode by Molecular Design

Journal article (2019)

Authors

Thomas Brandl University of Basel
M. El Abbassi QN/van der Zant Lab - AS , Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft
D. Stefani QN/van der Zant Lab - AS , Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft
R. Frisenda Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft, QN/van der Zant Lab - AS
Gero D. Harzmann University of Basel
H.S.J. van der Zant QN/van der Zant Lab - AS , Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft
Marcel Mayor University of Basel, Karlsruhe Institut für Technologie, Sun Yat-sen University
Research Group
QN/van der Zant Lab (AS) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2019 Thomas Brandl, M. El Abbassi, D. Stefani, R. Frisenda, Gero D. Harzmann, H.S.J. van der Zant, Marcel Mayor
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ejoc.201900432
More Info
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Published Date

2019

Language

English

Faculty

Applied Sciences

Department

QN/Quantum Nanoscience

Research Group

QN/van der Zant Lab

Abstract

A new concept to improve the reliability of functional single molecule junctions is presented using the E-field triggered switching of FeIIbis-terpyridine complexes in a mechanically controlled break junction experiment as model system. The complexes comprise a push-pull ligand sensing the applied E-field and the resulting distortion of the FeII ligand field is expected to trigger a spin-crossover event reflected in a sudden jump of the transport current. By molecular engineering, the active centre of the complex is separated from the gold electrodes in order to eliminate undesired side-effects. Two aspects are considered to isolate the central metal ion, namely the spacing by introducing additional alkynes, and the steric shielding achieved by bulky isopropyl groups. With this small series of model complexes, a pronounced correlation is observed between the occurrence of bistable junctions and the extent of separation of the central metal ion, affirming the hypothesized Enhanced Separation Concept (ESC).