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Full Paper
The Role of Aromaticity and the π-Conjugated Framework in Multiporphyrinic Systems as Single-Molecule Switches
Article first published online: 23 JUN 2008
DOI: 10.1002/smll.200701220
Copyright © 2008 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Additional Information
How to Cite
Lee, S. U., Belosludov, R. V., Mizuseki, H. and Kawazoe, Y. (2008), The Role of Aromaticity and the π-Conjugated Framework in Multiporphyrinic Systems as Single-Molecule Switches. Small, 4: 962–969. doi: 10.1002/smll.200701220
Publication History
- Issue published online: 11 JUL 2008
- Article first published online: 23 JUN 2008
- Manuscript Revised: 31 MAR 2008
- Manuscript Received: 7 DEC 2007
Keywords:
- aromaticity;
- conjugation;
- electron transport;
- molecular switches;
- porphyrins
Graphical Abstract
Switched on: The electron-transport characteristics in multiporphyrinic systems are systematically analyzed. The aromaticity and π-conjugated framework control the electron-transport characteristics (see picture: tet = tetrameric porphyrin isomer). The π-conjugated framework of the monomer provides the ability to switch a single molecule between “on” and “off” states.
Abstract
A systematic analysis of electron-transport characteristics for monomer, dimer, and tetramer multiporphyrinic systems is presented, to provide a thorough understanding of the structural dependence of electron transport related to the aromatic nature of the contact structure. Theoretical investigation shows that the electron-transport characteristics can be controlled by manipulating the π-conjugated framework in the multiporphyrinic systems through the arrangement of the inner hydrogen atoms. The designed π-conjugated framework assigns the distinct aromaticity on the contact structure, and the large aromatic nature of the contact structure increases conductivity. The feature emerging from this study is that the aromaticity and π-conjugated framework are important factors that control the electron-transport characteristics in molecular-scale electronic devices, such as single-molecule switches.