Two-Terminal Molecular Memory through Reversible Switching of Quantum Interference Features in Tunneling Junctions.

ABSTRACT: Large-area molecular tunneling junctions comprising self-assembled monolayers of redox-active molecules are described that exhibit two-terminal bias switching. The as-prepared monolayers undergo partial charge transfer to the underlying metal substrate (Au, Pt, or Ag), which converts their cores from a quinoid to a hydroquinoid form. The resulting rearomatization converts the bond topology from a cross-conjugated to a linearly conjugated π system. The cross-conjugated form correlates to the appearance of an interference feature in the transmission spectrum that vanishes for the linearly conjugated form. Owing to the presence of electron-withdrawing nitrile groups, the reduction potential and the interference feature lie close to the work function and Fermi level of the metallic substrate.

SUBMITTER: Carlotti M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6283355 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature