Single-molecule junctions of π molecules

Abstract

A single-molecule junction, where a single molecule is connected to metal electrodes, has been investigated for potential device applications. π molecules have various functions, and thus, they are ideal molecules as active components of electronic devices. A single-molecule junction study can also reveal the intrinsic properties of a molecule without the effect of intermolecular interaction. Meanwhile, the molecule in the single-molecule junction can exhibit unconventional physical and chemical properties which are not observed in other phases (e.g. gases and bulk crystals), when a molecule strongly interacts with metal. Under the strong metal–molecule interaction, the single-molecule junction can be regarded as a new material including metal electrodes, and a double interface material. A single-molecule junction is, thus, a fascinating research target for a wide range of areas from application to fundamental science.