New TTF derivatives: several molecular logic gates based on their switchable fluorescent emissions

Abstract

The new redox-fluorescence dependent molecules MTs were synthesized with tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and 5-methoxy-2-pyridylthiazoles coupled directly and rigidly. The fluorescent emission of MTs can be reversibly switched on/off depending on the oxidation states of the TTF unit, due to the peculiar property of TTF being oxidized reversibly and selectively. The dicationic MTs display a strong emission in the visible region and can be quenched by various chemical inputs. Based on this switchable fluorescent property of MTs, several logic gates such as AND, OR, NOT, NOR, INHIBIT, XNOR and NAND were realized by purposely selecting the initial states and chemical inputs.