Imine Linkers Enable the Formation of Robust Single-Molecule Junctions

Abstract

While imine (C=N) groups are renowned for their role in dynamic chemistry, whether imine binds to Au electrodes for forming single-molecule junctions and their electronic properties remain elusive. We demonstrate that imine groups work as chemical anchors for reliable formation of single-molecule junctions with gold electrodes and imine-terminated wires show slightly higher conductance than amine-terminated analogues. Critically, stable junction formation under steric hindrance is achieved with imines when amines fail. These results establish imines as versatile linkers for molecular junction design.