Controlled alignment of molecular diodes via ionic assembly of cationic donor–(π-bridge)–acceptor molecules on anionic surfaces

Abstract

Alignment of cationic donor–(π-bridge)–acceptor molecules via metathesis with a self-assembled monolayer formed from sodium 3-mercapto-1-propanesulfonate results in ultra-thin rectifying Au–S–(CH₂)₃SO₃⁻|A⁺–π–D structures which exhibit optimum current ratios of 450 at ±1 V for N-methyl-5-(4-dibutylaminobenzylidene)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroisoquinolinium.