A robust molecular platform for non-volatile memory devices with optical and magnetic responses

Abstract

Bistable molecules that behave as switches in solution have long been known. Systems that can be reversibly converted between two stable states that differ in their physical properties are particularly attractive in the development of memory devices when immobilized in substrates. Here, we report a highly robust surface-confined switch based on an electroactive, persistent organic radical immobilized on indium tin oxide substrates that can be electrochemically and reversibly converted to the anion form. This molecular bistable system behaves as an extremely robust redox switch in which an electrical input is transduced into optical as well as magnetic outputs under ambient conditions. The fact that this molecular surface switch, operating at very low voltages, can be patterned and addressed locally, and also has exceptionally high long-term stability and excellent reversibility and reproducibility, makes it a very promising platform for non-volatile memory devices. The creation of ‘smart surfaces’ that can act as switches or memory devices will rely on systems with bistable states that can be interconverted externally. Now, a low-voltage and robust surface-confined switch that transduces an electrical input into an optical and magnetic output is described.

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Simão, C., Mas-Torrent, M., Crivillers, N. et al. A robust molecular platform for non-volatile memory devices with optical and magnetic responses. Nature Chem 3, 359–364 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1038/nchem.1013

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