Electrochemical Origin of Voltage-Controlled Molecular Conductance Switching
摘要:
We have studied electron transport in bipyridyl- dinitro oligophenylene- ethynelene dithiol ( BPDN) molecules both in an inert environment and in aqueous electrolyte under potential control, using scanning tunneling microscopy. Current- voltage ( IV) data obtained in an inert environment were similar to previously reported results showing conductance switching near 1.6 V. Similar measurements taken in electrolyte under potential control showed a linear dependence of the bias for switching on the electrochemical potential. Extrapolation of the potentials to zero switching bias coincided with the potentials of redox processes on these molecules. Thus switching is caused by a change in the oxidation state of the molecules.
Synthesis and testing of new end-functionalized oligomers for molecular electronics
摘要:
Several new classes of oligomers have been synthesized with functionalities designed to aid in the understanding of molecular device behavior, specifically when molecules are interfaced between proximal electronic probes. The compounds synthesized are series of azobenzenes, bipyridines and oligo(phenylene vinylene)s that bear acetyl-protected thiols for ultimate attachment to metallic surfaces. Some initial electrochemical and solid-state test results are also reported. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.