Li@C60 as a multi-state molecular switch

Henry J. Chandler, Minas Stefanou, Eleanor E. B. Campbell and Renald Schaub ()
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Henry J. Chandler: University of St Andrews, North Haugh
Minas Stefanou: University of Edinburgh
Eleanor E. B. Campbell: University of Edinburgh
Renald Schaub: University of St Andrews, North Haugh

Nature Communications, 2019, vol. 10, issue 1, 1-8

Abstract: Abstract The field of molecular electronics aims at advancing the miniaturization of electronic devices, by exploiting single molecules to perform the function of individual components. A molecular switch is defined as a molecule that displays stability in two or more states (e.g. “on” and “off” involving conductance, conformation etc.) and upon application of a controlled external perturbation, electric or otherwise, undergoes a reversible change such that the molecule is altered. Previous work has shown multi-state molecular switches with up to four and six distinct states. Using low temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy, we report on a multi-state single molecule switch using the endohedral fullerene Li@C60 that displays 14 molecular states which can be statistically accessed. We suggest a switching mechanism that relies on resonant tunnelling via the superatom molecular orbitals (SAMOs) of the fullerene cage as a means of Li activation, thereby bypassing the typical vibronic excitation of the carbon cage that is known to cause molecular decomposition.

Date: 2019
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10300-2

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