Electric-field-based control of molecular magnetism in TMPc/Sc2CO2 van der Waals systems

Abstract

Controlling the magnetic states of molecular structures through electric fields is a major challenge in the area of electron spin manipulation, but it can be achieved upon utilizing the sensitivity of the electron distribution at a heterostructure interface. Here, we found that the magnetic states of a transition-metal phthalocyanine (TMPc) can be effectively controlled through switching the polarization state of monolayer Sc₂CO₂ to achieve a transition between the nonmagnetic and magnetic states of some TMPc molecules. Moreover, the magnetic moments of some structures can be regulated through applying an external vertical electric field. These novel characteristics are caused by the effects of an intrinsic or external electric field on the d-orbital electron transfer and orbital splitting of TMPc molecules. In addition, the p–d hybrid orbital in AgPc will also be affected by the external vertical electric field, ultimately changing the magnetic moment. Therefore, we are very interested in these different magnetic effects, and the fascinating phenomena seen in this study could guide the development of ferroelectric control for use in high-performance electronic memory writing, high-density magnetic memory reading, sensors, and other spintronic devices.